You might have noticed recently I really got into the band recently. Since my posts regarding them never get any reaction, I thought it means nobody knows them and it's worth starting a thread about them
They're considered basically the "fathers" of gothic metal, but have gone through several phases in their discography (they started as a death/doom metal band, then gothic metal for a long time - the heavy kind of gothic - and then there was a lighter phase, the climax of which was the controversial "Host" album, with heavy Depeche Mode influences... I think you get the picture), recently returning to their gothic metal style, but in a new way. The previous album, In Requiem, was quite well-received and it was also my introduction into the band - I re-discovered it recently and even wrote a review (in the reviews section, if you're interested). Now, they have released a new album, called "Faith Divides Us - Death Unites Us", which is one of the most monumental records I've had a chance to hear, and close to my album of the year.
This is a bit of a short introduction, I think there's no point saying more. If you're into quite heavy, darker and more atmospheric metal, you should give a try to the last two albums. Two songs which, I believe, represent them pretty well - both have an official video:
Praise Lamented Shade - from "In Requiem", represents what I'd call their "epic side" - slower, more monumental. I think I don't know anyone who wouldn't like this song. The video is basically a live video.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JMxZfDacPzgThe Rise of Denial - one of my favourites from "Faith Divides Us - Death Unites Us". More straightforward, faster and heavier - but the middle section solo is the definition of Greg Mackintosh's guitar style, and one of the most amazing I've heard. If you're the type for melodic solos like me... I think you're going to like it. The video is quite unusual, I like it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SHXOWwqwPDoWell, I think the music will speak better than I can. I still need to discover their earlier discography, so I'm no expert.
Give them a try, the band is really worth it.