Review Summary: A non-conforming cautionary tale doused in impassioned symphonic song-writing arranged delicately to accentuate the theatrical, thunderous vocal narrative that delivers a script penned with an imprudent B grade bluntness.
Aptly titled, This Is No Fairy Tale has a simple plot but the concept can easily be misconstrued. This is no fairy tale because this is a non-conforming cautionary tale, which undeniably comes across as a bastardized version of Hansel and Gretel popularized by Brothers Grimm in the early 19th century. Such a tale uses folklore to convey a warning to the listener by making an unpleasant example out of the protagonist(s). Here, they would be the kids (Hansel and Gretel). The caution: There is no nightmare besides the one of reality and it doesn't matter if you're innocent; so brace yourselves, children.
Carach Angren have outdone themselves at song-writing: Little in terms of pushing the skill envelope and more so in striking a solid balance between writing coherent, engaging songs and a BGM-like passive approach to underscore the storyline. The latter elements sees them continuing their trademark melodramatic indulgence to spotlight the climaxes barring few underdone moments. The track "Dreaming Of A Nightmare In Eden" is a direct, sinister take on Hansel and Gretel, with stellar vocal delivery. The guitar-works on the record are no step up from their previous effort Where The Corpses Sink Forever. However, the track "Possessed By A Craft Of Witchery" stands out for it's intricate riffing with progressive tendencies. While there is a distinct black metal sound production-wise, the overall tone is ambiguous for they often charge with an Septic Flesh-like death attack.
Lyrically, as hinted, they're not trying to charm you with poetic genius. There is no subtlety. This This shouldn't be surprising given the fairy tale themed context. However there are awkward phrasings such as - 'successful suicide', 'a damn small chance to escape' , 'the witch's voice now whispers and laughs' - which can be off-putting to certain listeners. That said, they do manage to paint the story to detail quite gracefully with lines like 'Her ghost slithers like black fog down the chimney at night'. They don't loose all the points.
Overall, with This Is No Fairy Tale, Carach Angren have not raised the bar for themselves but have laterally released yet another consistent record with excellent musicianship to back an ambitious theme. This release, reinforces their place among the most creative and forward thinking artists associated with black metal right now.
