CoC : Charon - Tearstained : Review

Charon - _Tearstained_
(Diehard, 2000)
by: Paul Schwarz (7.5 out of 10)

They may not be all that original, but there is a touch of an x-factor in Charon -- something which is essential for any great band -- which sets them apart from the chaff of mere imitating hangers-on that every scene is polluted by. Comparisons between Charon and their Finnish cousins Sentenced hold ground beyond the band photos presented in _Tearstained_'s inlay, but Charon acquit themselves in producing this stunningly catchy and impressive album of distinctly gothic-leaning songs, but songs which never forget to be invigoratingly metal. Since their _Sorrowburn_ debut of two years ago Charon have evidently worked hard, honing their songwriting skills and expanding their musical thinking. It has all paid off and the impact is felt throughout _Tearstained_'s forty-five minutes. Should Charon build on this momentum, then I can only see them go from strength to strength in the years to come, provided they don't allow themselves to slip into a one-dimensional groove and thus stop exploring new musical territory.

(article published 12/8/2000)

ALBUMS
9/1/1998	P Schwarz	6	Charon - Sorrowburn