De Profundis

England's De Profundis have pooled influences from extreme metal ― black, death, doom ― to create a dark, contemplative sophomore album with a progressive flare. The mix of the album is interesting: the bass is very audible throughout, almost to the point of overpowering the guitars. While adding a unique texture, particularly during the slower instances where the bass lines can really flourish, it often becomes distracting from the main theme or melody. Much of A Bleak Reflection is excellent and well executed, but the style, or intent, of the album is sometimes more likeable than the record itself. Every track has something positive to offer, yet because of the almost constant changes the songs in their entirety aren't consistently engaging, either because they lack direction or sound empty, as though an ingredient was missing. But for the open-minded, patient listener, A Bleak Reflection will likely have much more value.