Search - Penumbra :: Seclusion

A Truly Unique Band of Sophisticated Musicianship

T. Keane | San Diego/Boston | 03/13/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Penumbra was my first introduction to "Goth Metal/Goth Rock", whatever sub-genre of Rock and Metal you wish to classify them instead of Hard Rock and Metal (I've never been a fan of all these different sub-genres that kids are creating these days). I expected to hear extremely depressing sounds and an entire album based on sorrow, but this is not the case with Penumbra, they are something unique and original. I don't view them as Gothic Rock, what comes to my mind is GREAT Hard Rock and Metal music.



Penumbra is a great musical endeavor, their two latest albums Seclusion and Bewitchment are thematic and weaves a story through the entirety of their albums. Seclusion is a continuation of the story that began in The Last Bewitchment, of a male angel in love with a female mortal and the tragedy that changes their lives. Every listen given to each song reveals something intricate one didn't hear the first time they listened to it. The guitar rhythms seem simple at first but a closer listen reveals complex picking patterns that are synchronized beautifully with the drumming. The bass player gives the listener nothing short of fantastic bass playing; the sound and presence of the bass guitar add to the overall richness and depth to each song. Completely unique to this band's style is their use of the Oboe in the melody, it makes for a beautiful and smooth sounding melody (very catchy as well as original!).



One can hear elements of classical influence in chord progression and voice leading which is done very sophisticatedly yet remains simple to the ear and easily enjoyable. Vocals are fantastic as well! We have at times, the trademark growling of harsh vocals in metal, and then we have clean male vocals completed with beautiful female vocals. A French octet choir can also be heard (bass-soprano voices of both genders) as well as a quartet of stringed instruments. The piano lines are great lead-ins and transitions into different segments of new episodes. Classical counterpoints can also be heard from both guitar players when space is provided to allow emotionally gripping harmonies.



Penumbra is one of a small number of bands and music groups that puts meaning into each aspect of their music, the concepts, the musical passages, the lyrics, the rhythm and tempo, everything you hear is a work of art that remains simple and ornate. You won't find any Michael Romeo or Yngwie technical guitar solos but you will hear brilliant and well thought out guitar phrases that incorporate other instruments into the atmosphere. A great work of art by great musicians in my opinion! If you don't believe me, listen for yourself and decide. 5 Stars all the way for me!"