Remember TOMORROW’S RAIN? From their debut album four years ago? The phenomenal Doom / Gothic / Atmospheric band from Israel which dazzled then, now returns to provide an aural treat once again this year. With a stellar list of guests from MAYHEM, DARK FUNERAL, DEPRESSIVE AGE and MERCYFUL FATE on the album, “Ovdan” sounds absolutely amazing. First and foremost, the production is pristine, I can hear every single sound on this record with no issue, the guitars sound just as melodic as the early mornings of spring, the vocals meander through the various layers of instrumentation with ease. The absolute sensitivity with which the songs have been written / put together shows very clearly. The music carries you on a journey through a rich landscape of emotions and the best possible part about this is every single guest on this album is literally the heavyweight of the genre as a whole. For example, track # 3 ‘Muaka’ opens with a soul soothing acoustic introduction that could be mistaken for a gentle lullaby but we’ve got Attila from MAYHEM on this track who adds an absolute darkness through his vocals that is perhaps only possible through magic but well, you have it here guiding you painfully slowly through a column of thorns. Coupled with this ache is the beautiful guitar solos that further reiterate the physical wounds that you’ve simply come to accept. Attila does a phenomenal job on this track, it is evident why the background music takes a backseat here. Attila just shines through and elevates the entire song to the dark skies above. This is absolutely brilliant writing! I only wish I had a chance to listen to this in the winter but nevertheless, TOMORROW’S RAIN clearly have a plan with this release and have left no stones unturned in making this album. “Ovdan” is just 54 minutes long and I’ve never once realized how much time has passed when I was listening to this album. A brilliant addition to the soundscape to the current year. I’d sincerely hope you’re able to give this album some time of your day, I’m positive you will be surprised. For more information, please visit: www.facebook.com/tomorrowsrain, www.facebook.com/aoprecs