Review by JD on June 8, 2010.

Goth Metal has became one of my more hidden pleasures in music, and a favourite as well... and Germany’s Crematory is the ones that I like the most. The first Crematory album I heard was the 2008 album "Pray", and was hooked... now I am reviewing the 2000 self titled album.

As I listen to the first few tracks, I see that this album was not as heavy...opting to use way more use of the synths and end up using whole lot less heaviness. Don’t get me wrong here...the album sounds pretty good overall but lacks that certain massive sonic punch of the album that I was so amazed by called "Pray".

Most songs are written in German, and has that abrasive quality we as metalheads always seem to like... but it is like cheap chewing gum. It burst with flavour and the hint of more to come, and then unexpectedly fades off and disappeared. It is not what I was expecting... and that alone made a basic disappointment really large, and an album less appealing.

I want to see more of the heavier side of them, the really heavy side of them in fact... this side of them really does sucks badly. They still are amazing musicians and that comes through no mater what, yet this album was one that just might have to be overlooked in the broader scheme of things. This album is a huge sort of letdown for someone who had been so moved by other albums than this one.. But I still think it is worth more than just a listen.

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Musicianship: 9
Atmosphere: 6
Production: 7.5
Originality:6
Overall: 7

Rating: 7.1 out of 10

Review by Krys on January 18, 2001.

I don’t see to many changes from the previous album, but I don’t think fans of this band where expecting it anyway. It seems like there is less keyboards or they just moved them back a little and toned. Although there are more acoustic parts in this effort, guitars are still very brutal and heavy and Felixes’ deep growls are nicely enhanced by clean and melodic vocals of Matthias.

Overall, Believe is another heavy melodic piece of music and a must buy for any gothic fan. I just hope they try a little experimentation on their next album.

Rating: 8 out of 10