Review by Adam M on November 8, 2012.

This album by My Dying Bride marks a sort of return to the classic sound of the band from their early period. There is not a great deal of experimentation to be found here, but simply a number of downtrodden yet at the same time romantically appealing songs. The first couple of songs are among the better ones to be found here and the second one 'The Poorest Waltz' in particular resonates with echoing vocals and a cascade of massive riffs throughout. Other tracks such as 'Like A Perpetual Funeral' are noteworthy as well.

The song structures are very traditional with an emphasis on huge brooding riffs and the occasional violin thrown in for good measure. There are times when experimentation is appropriate for a band, but when such an established sound is done so well, might as well stick to the basics. This makes for an impressive year for the English pioneering Doom Metal acts. Each of Paradise Lost, Anathema, My Dying Bride and Katatonia released a strong album that lived up to their early established reputations over the course of the season. What’s more impressive about this is that these are some bands that have seen lots of fluctuations in quality over the years. However, it’s been an impressive display this year with them all finding an appropriate sound for the times. In the case of My Dying Bride and Paradise Lost in particular it is very close to the original sound that made them so popular and successful in the first place.

"A Map Of All Our Failures" feature excellent song-writing, moods and the amount of sorrow that anyone would ever expect from My Dying Bride at their peak. The riffs are strong and the melodies memorable, although at the same time there isn’t any revolutionary on display either. My Dying Bride fans will be fully satisfied by this excellent offering, especially.

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Musicianship: 9.5
Atmosphere: 9
Production: 9
Originality: 8
Overall: 8.7

Rating: 8.9 out of 10