Trial of  Tears are still producing good quality gothic metal, even in spite of the lineup going through a drastic change with just one original member – the growler.

‘Bloodstained Endurance’ is quite overwhelming. It sounds like a modernised and heavier version of Tristania, circa ‘Beyond the Veil’. The heavy guitars compliment the contrasting, winding gothic metal melodies. Similarly, Ronny Thorsen’s growls work sweetly alongside returning female vocalist Catherine Paulsen. Paulsen’s voice is very powerful and unique, packing a real punch into the album, especially on ‘Triumphant Gleam’. Kjetil Nordhus’ clean vocals are effectively replaced by her and it feels like nothing is missing from Trail of Tears. The ballad ‘A Storm At Will’ is a ethereally acute one that showcases a bevy of emotion, different from the powerhouse songs on the rest of the release. The vocal solo is also rather intense.

There are very few bands that still play gothic metal like this and ‘Bloodstained Endurance is doing well keeping the torch burning.  The only real draw-back is that the gothic metal leads are often left behind in the production. Otherwise, this is a solid.

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