Solitude Absolute by Angel of Suicide

Depression evades concrete description, a fact which only makes this emotion more isolating. Where most see a concrete wall, French solo black metal act Angel of Suicide sees a challenge. Their new record Solitude Absolute crafts a detailed diorama of the process of depression, from the absolute depths of nihilistic despair to some instances of self-aware euphoria that quickly melt back into the wet clay of discomfort. Constantly, Angel of Suicide confronts us with these rainy arpeggios that give the sensation of icicles melting on a spring day. In the few moments where these downtempo instrumentals speak for themselves, a sort of melancholy appreciation for the world forms, quickly snuffed out by the self-destructive monster deeper within. When the beast strikes, the entire stereo field falls victim to screeching vocals, roaring guitars. Ironically, by illustrating their isolation and helplessness, Angel of Suicide draws us into their world, allowing for the beginnings of the empathy that they crave. Music miraculously turns a moment of absolute loss into personal and communal gain.

-Michael