CD Review: Black Fortress Of Opium - Black Fortress Of Opium

Black Fortress Of Opium – Black Fortress Of Opium
2008, Black Fortress Of Opium

Goth’s third generation is alive and well. Black Fortress Of Opium prove this point on their self-titled debut. Black Fortress Of Opium is the sonic lovechild of Adja The Turkish Queen, and represents a sort of organically pure Evanescence, if you will.

Black Fortress Of Opium is full of dirge-like songs that flow from one to the next like water. It was a difficult listen for me, to be honest. What I can say about it is that the musicianship is excellent. The songwriting in general is a little too consistent in sound for my taste, but there are some highlights here (House of Edward Devotion, Model Café, From A Woman To A Man). Adja The Turkish Queen offers up unique and interesting vocals on this project that are in themselves quite enjoyable.

Black Fortress Of Opium will find a market, but is not a strong commercial album. The middle eastern influence on a few songs (such as Dulcet TV) helps to spice up the sound a bit, but this is just a little too monochromatic for my taste. There are, nevertheless, bright spots. If you are a fan of Dead Can Dance, The Cocteau Twins, Current 93, or other bands of the same ilk, then this is definitely for you.

Rating: 2.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Black Fortress Of Opium at www.myspace.com/blackfortressofopium. You can purchase a copy of their self-titled CD at www.cdbaby.com/bfofopium.