Moonspell-Alpha Noir

Napalm Records
2012

Twenty years is a long time for any band to stay together. For Moonspell, the Portuguese band that started off as more folk metal/goth metal, the past twenty years has seen changes and yet they remain more determined than ever. Formed in 1992 (out of the ashes of a band called Morbid God) the group has gone from a simple local act to heroes in their native land. Time has also helped shape the group's ninth studio album into a fusion of thrash, death metal and goth rock/metal. Since day one it has been Fernando Ribeiro's voice that leads Moonspell and as evident on this new album he shows no sign of slowing down. He still sounds strong, if somewhat dark, and no matter if the music is harsh or (dare I say) groove based his voice is equally appropriate and intriguing. Coming in at over forty minutes this album is a testament to how one band can keep it's goth style intact while still creating an album that appeals to more mainstream heavy metal fans.