I basically picked up this little EP solely based on the fact that it features members of French blackhearts like MORTIFERA, ALCEST and CELESTIA. After only one listen I can confidently state that this is a highly enjoyable piece of melancholic Black Metal, with some clean Melodic Rock touches (the press sheet describes the band’s style as ‘depressive Black Metal/Cold Rock’). As far as EP’s go nothing has impressed me more than “Ruines Humaines” all year long!

Listening to this, the sounds of bands like MÜTIILATION (atmosphere-wise), KATATONIA, CELESTIA and for some reason (*gasp*) REM come to mind, all combining perfectly to form the band’s so-called depressive BM/Rock sound. All three tracks just invoke such strong feelings of despair, isolation and depressive beauty in me, that it is just unbelievable! “Bonheur Amputé” nails down the patented depressive BM riff and anguished screams in grand style, perfectly setting the grim, somber and ultimately beautiful tone for the rest of the EP. The title track relies more on a mid-paced Doom riff that will lull you in and then submerse you in its darkness. The closer proper, “Faiblesse Des Sens”, is another highlight that features ethereal female vocals and a slow acoustically-tinged riff that slowly builds up and then segues into a great Folky/galloping riff. This last song strongly reminds me of the Polish band HEFEYSTOS. Man, the atmosphere that this EP manages to create is just otherworldly!

The press sheet describes the band’s concept as that of the so-called ‘amesoeurs’ sitting on rooftops of buildings at night, surveying the modern landscape and society, fascinated but also terrified by the face of humanity. They are only observers in this world and perhaps the last vestiges of true beauty… Sounds strange? Listen to the music and you’ll understand. I was listening to this EP while watching news reports about the recent school shootings in Canada and in that moment the music was almost unbearable – it was almost like an emotional overload.

I don’t even know what more to say about this band. This EP is one of the most darkly beautiful and emotive pieces of music I’ve heard in a long time. A masterpiece!!!

(Online November 21, 2006)