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Illuminatus: The Wrath Of The Lambs
Post Modern Progressive Metal
Rating: 4.0/5.0

http://www.illuminatus.co.uk
Anthill Records
www.myspace.com/illuminatusuk

Illumimatus is probably quite unknown to you, particularly if you are American and do not take a glimpse of the metal world beyond your shores. They hail from Nottingham, England and describe themselves as 'music for the doom(ed) generation.' How pessimistic is that? Well, considering their roots are in doom and death metal including the likes of Anathema, In Flames and Cult of Luna, it makes perfect sense. Yet they also value such bands as Metallica, Pink Floyd, and Porcupine Tree. All this is an obvious eclectic mix of genres. Add to this, some near serious commentary on our current world and you have a band of unusual proportions. So why review something that I would best describe as 'post-modern, post-alternative,' progressive metal? Why? Because these guys are pretty darn good.

Regular readers of dangerdog.com are probably questioning my loyalty and sanity at this point. But there is a lot to enjoy on this album. Yes, the vocals easily near the dirty quality. However, the music is passionate and filled with varied expressions. 'The Wrath Of The Lambs' is, at times, slow and plodding as doom metal can be. Alternatively, there are the quirks and complexities of progressive metal. And where you would not expect melody or guitar solos, you will find them throughout this work. All their influences are prevalent somewhere and at sometime throughout the work. Some might say that Illumimatus best fits into the American music scene. But I beg to differ: you will not find the strength of composition or the depth of passion in American metal of the same style (if they fit into any American category). I found myself drawn to such songs as 'Wargasm,' 'White Lies,' 'Suburban Symmetry,' and the clever title track, 'The Wrath Of The lambs.'

Illumimatus' 'The Wrath Of The Lambs' is indeed interesting music, possibly with no category. It is hardly perfect, but it is different in an elegant and new way. Give it go; you might find yourself impressed.
  - Craig Hartranft

In Short

England's Illuminatus is hard to classify. They draw inspiration from various roots including Metallica and Porcupine Tree. That is not only different ends of a spectrum, but wholly different categories. This is passionate, ingeniously crafted progressive metal for a new day. One must listen (and drop conventions) to believe that there is something new here. This is some unique music.

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