For veteran underground metal fans, the release of a new KATATONIA album is always a heralded event. Night is the New Day is the latest progression for KATATONIA’s unique progressive, dark metal. Sure, there are the band’s melancholic atmospheres and fantastic textures, but this album is not a rerun. The songs here are just as sweeping and powerful but have a fresh yet familiar feel to them. Perhaps this is the band’s most mature and accomplished work yet as exemplified by the way the band play progressive metal/rock and redefine how doom metal can sound. While the album has the trademark muscular guitar/bass riffs, Night is the New Day may be the band’s least heavy album overall. However, that’s not to say that there aren’t any heavy songs or song sections, or that the album lacks power.

The musicianship and creativity on display is inspiring. String instruments, electronics, and piano potently and subtlely add further color and feel. As with every KATATONIA album, you can expect a top-notch production. Night is the New Day is best enjoyed with a great pair of headphones or stereo system.

Night is the New Day is challenging and takes time and focus to truly appreciate everything that went into making this album. However, it doesn’t take many listens to realize that KATATONIA have outdone themselves again and surely put out one of the best albums of the year. (Peaceville Records)