Review by Adam M on January 7, 2010.

The band has made a gleaming type of Melodic Death etal that brings some chops to the table. I can certainly hear In Flames circa about "Colony" here and if you liked that type of approach then you’ll enjoy what’s to be found here.

There’s definitely a lot of melody to be found here and a very different style to "Nebularium" which put progressiveness in the forefront. "The Isolation Game" should appeal to a certain type of listener, one that craves accessibility at the forefront. There’s also a sort of Metalcore vibe that is to be found especially when compared directly to their other work again.

It isn’t overtly present, however, and Disarmonia Mundi are still able to craft something reasonably enjoyable despite certainly stepping into more easy to listen to territory. There is certainly an excitement to be found that is infectious and overwhelms the disc as the band seem to be having fun playing their roles. The vocals alternate between harsher and clean ones in a manner that is done alright, but brings out a slightly cheesy sound in the cleaner ones.

I really liked the acoustic break to be found from 'Glimmer' as it breaks up the remaining melodic death pacing. As a whole "The Isolation Game" is pretty good, but not up to the level of quality of "Nebularium" for certain. The work just sounds overly easy to digest and like it’s not trying hard enough to innovate. Get it if you like more accessible Melodic Death metal, but if this doesn’t sound appealing to you, it might be better to pass on it.

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Musicianship: 6.5
Atmosphere: 7.5
Production: 7.5
Originality: 6
Overall: 7.0

Rating: 6.9 out of 10