Review by Adam on September 25, 2002.

Darkane have taken thrash metal to a whole new level. Their third album, "Expanding Senses", melds together the brutality of "Rusted Angel" and the aggressiveness of "Insanity" while managing to introduce some new elements as well. Darkane take melodic thrash metal to the very limits making them, for me, one of the important metal bands of the new millennium.

"Expanding Senses" is not too different from Darkane's previous works, however, the band have made several new additions and alterations to their sound making it that much more dynamic. One of the most evident improvements would have to be the vocals. This has to be one of the best metal vocal performances of the year! This guy has an amazing range that was only slightly touched upon on the group's last effort. Darkane have also decided to include some keyboards this time around. Even though they are used sparingly, when they do show up, they definitely make the most of it.

The music on this record is exceptional. Although the band's faster songs are still top notch, it is the band's more mid-tempo material that shines through the most. This shift in dynamics makes the record that much more enjoyable to listen to. Some of the more melodic choruses are incredibly catchy and will have you humming them in your head for days. Ever since I heard the song 'Rusted Angel' I have been waiting for another ending as heavenly as the one on that track, and this time we are treated to two remarkably stunning song endings. One of these songs ends with a classical guitar outro even your grandmother would worship.

The musicianship of this band is first class. Like I said before, the vocals are just phenomenal especially on tracks such as 'Submission' and 'Violence From Within'. As always Peter Wildoer does a superb job on the drums and the guitar playing is amazing. The production quality is also outstanding. The sound is very fat and brutal yet extremely clear so you can hear each instrument perfectly.

This is definitely Darkane's best work to date. "Expanding Senses" has something for nearly every metal fan to enjoy. If you like thrash metal, then this disc is absolutely essential. This is album of the year material right here folks. Buy now!

Bottom Line: Fans of extreme metal and brutal death need this! Fans of melodic death metal should buy this as well! Turn this up until your ears bleed!

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Originality: 10
Musicianship: 10
Atmosphere: 10
Production: 10
Overall: 10

Rating: 10 out of 10