Sinisthra - Last of the Stories of Long Past Glories

Finnish metallers Sinisthra was originally known as Nevergreen (not to be confused with the prolific Hungarian band with the same name) and upon forming in 2000, the Helsinki band kept busy. They released three three song demos; 2004's Empty Banalities Adorned With Dashing Eloquence, 2003's Effortlessly Improving Perfection, 2002's Slowly Getting There, and the four song demo, 2002's Softly Whispering Mountains to Gravel. The band changed their name to Sinisthra and signed with Arise Records for their debut full length, Last of the Stories of Long Past Glories.

Sinisthra fit right into Finland's growing gothic rock/ metal scene. They are comparable to bands like Entwine, H.I.M., and the Black League. If I had to choose a particular record to compare Last of the Stories of Long Past Glories to, I would go with Entwine's debut. The mournful rock of Sinisthra shines through best during the haunting "To the One Far Away." Many will be reminded of Tiamat during the mellow "My Sweet Nothing" but Sinisthra's best work is on closer "Completely Incomplete" which is the album's heaviest song and has prominent bass playing. If you're a fan of this style of gothic rock, you should check out Sinisthra.