For those looking to expand their metal discography, Shining Black has just come out with their latest album. Their self-titled debut came in 2020 with their record, Shining Black. They continue their symphonic melodies with Postcards From the End of the World.

A relativity new band, the group combines melodic and flowing notes from the guitar and expansive keyboard and synthesizers that meld perfectly with the overall tone of the vocals.

The group consists of veteran singer Mark Boals, who uses his experience from bands such as Ring of Fire and Royal Hunt to his full advantage, and guitarist Olaf Thorsen, whose expertise from bands Labyrinth and Vision Divine showcases how smoothly he crafts his music.

1. Postcards From The End Of The World
2. Higher Than The World
3. We Are Death Angels
4. Summer Solstice Under Delphi’s Sky
5. Like Leaves In November
6. A Hundred Thousand Shades Of Black
7. Faded Pictures Of Me
8. Mirror Of Time
9. Fear And Loathing
10. Time Heals, They Say

The beautiful melodies from this album are on full display in every song. Keyboardist Oleg Smirnoff flawlessly matches tone with Thorsen’s riffs and Boals’ vocals. Although electric keyboards normally feel too digital, in Faded Pictures of Me, Smirnoff is able to somehow put soul inside the keys, and it really makes the song extra special. His use of synth just makes it even better.

If I could give some slight criticism, it would be to point out the volume of the bass. Nik Mazzucconi does a fabulous job at mixing in with the guitar. His skill is definitely on point, especially when it comes to Mirror Of Time. It is this obvious skill that makes me a little sad when the bass is drowned out by the rest of the rhythm section.

It’s understandable that symphonic metal doesn’t want to go too much into super bass qualities like death metal does, but I would love it if, in a future album, we could see Mazzucconi shine in his element.

No metal album can be complete without good drums. The timing of Matt Peruzzi in each song connects the final dots for a great experience. There are some really nice fills in Time Heals, They Say. It definitely makes you wanna close your eyes and bob up and down.

Overall, this is a great example of melodic metal. If you’re looking for some clean vocals with fantastic guitar solos, this is for you. The piano, synthesizer, bass, and drums are just the icing on the cake.

Review by: John Cicotte

Shining Black’s Postcards From the End of the World is available on all music streaming platforms.

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