This could be it. This could be the album that Katatonia will never be able to top. A lot of people (including myself) were converted to the “new” Katatonia through the previous record, Last Fair Deal Gone Down. That album has a lot of great moments, but you could feel that there was definitely room for improvement.
Thus, the approach to Viva Emptiness is much like Last Fair Deal..., but that room has been filled. Jonas Renske’s vocals are even more melodious, clean and despondent than before - conveying a unique edge to contrast the melancholic yet rocking edge of the music.
The heavy songs rock hard, while the softer ones, like the brilliant “Omerta,” have excellent touch. The solid riffs and permanently memorable choruses mean that every song on Viva Emptiness has something to offer.
The only criticism that can be pointed to the band is their rather careless use of curse words. Over the last two albums at least, Katatonia has been into jabbing the listener by including the word “fuck” into songs. It does provide some edge, yes, but seems equally a device to make all the conservative mommies cover their mouths and elicit a “parental advisory” sticker. So I guess there is an every so slight sliver of room for improvement. One of the best albums this year for sure. (9/10)
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