Catamenia – VIII – The Time Unchained

Releasedate: 24-10-2008; Label: Massacre Records
By: Sabine van Gameren

Catamenia, started back in 1995, is already up for their 8th full length album. The Finns make melodic Black metal and had loads of lineup changes through the years. Recently they dropped the keyboards out of their music. “VIII: The Time Unchained” is the name of their new album.

Catamenia brings the Black metal with a small pagan edge as if those who known them already were used to. Don’t see them as a typical pagan band though. The Black surely takes the lead. The first song on the album certainly sets the tone. A typical song you will remember from a band. You hear the song and you immediately think: Catamenia. I can’t wait to see it live. Also, because part of the vocals are done by Ari Nissila. He does this since Olli Mustonen quit the band. Ari seems to work it out great. He has just as much aggression and passion in his vocals as Olli.
The band also included Finnish songs in the album like “Tuhon Oma” and “Uhrimalja”. The album has fast riffs, a lot of experimenting but always stayed true to what Catamenia was.

As little critic I can mention that sometimes the whole album has a lot of the same spirit. That is not necessarily a bad thing, but just a personal thing I dislike. Also the album is produced smooth. For those purists out there it will be a point to fall over.

The last three songs are covers. Faith No More, and fellow Finnish bands Apulanta and Shitter Limited are the ones to be covered. For those who like surprises, don’t turn of the stereo as soon as the last song finished, since there is a hidden surprise if you are patient.
Catamenia has brought a released that did fulfill expectations, they certainly proved why they are still out there and that they are more than ready to make us more and more in future.

Line Up:
Riku Hopeakoski – Vocals
Ari Nissila – Vocals, Guitar
Toni Kansanoja – Drums
Kari Vahakuopus – Clean Vocals

Links:
Catamenia MySpace
Catamenia Official