The Coffinshakers Graves, Release Your Dead CD Review

Rob Coffinshaker's ability to deliver apocalyptic performances in such a calm and poetic manner is truly remarkable. The dead and the doom surround you, but you don't mind because it's such a beautiful sight. None of that is on display as much as it is on 'Graves, Release Your Dead'.

With what I would consider to be their strongest release to date, the horror country outfit never ceases to amaze me in how they construct such well crafted tales of terror. 'Graves, Release Your Dead' is the perfect backdrop to any number of classic Hammer horror films. The fire is crackling, the church bells can be heard off in the distance and despair permeates throughout the air. The opening title track and follow up "City of the Dead" act as your first steps into this atmosphere. "Wretches" showcases more of their country influences and sounds like something you'd find on one of Rob's solo releases and is an absolute standout.

Another memorable track is "Down in Flames" with its hypnotizing backing female operatic vocals. The band has utilized this before and I'm always here for it. The closing track, "The Great Silence" is a slower tempo effort that again utilizes the operatic backing vocals that makes you feel the loneliness and helplessness at the end of the world. It's the song that's played as dirt is being shoveled onto your coffin...the last sign of beauty you will know. 

~TJ