Artist: Dark Side Cowboys
Title: Chronicles
Genre: Gothic/ Alt-Rock
Release Date: 13th December 2013
Label: Self-Released
Review Flash
Released to mark their 20th year as a band, 'Chronicles' is basically an over-view of the story from '95 to 2001 for Sweden's DARK SIDE COWBOYS. Thirteen tracks have been re-recorded here and given a make-over, with brand new song 'Starvation' ensuring things aren't too stuck in the past. And this song sums up the DSC trademark sound perfectly, a gloomy Western skulk, musically reminiscent of early FIELDS OF THE NEPHILIM. And there's plenty of variation on offer and melody to spare, from the hugely miserable gothic ballad of 'Paralyzed' to the ASP dynamics of 'Loving You', there's hardly a weak song here. Despite the all-pervading sense of doomy dustiness, DSC certainly know their way around a good chorus, and keep their sound energised by never staying still for longer than necessary.
Conclusion: An energetic romp through the deep, dark archives that is neither stifling nor backwards-looking. Good stuff.
Rating: 8 / 10
