...do you think the end of the world is coming..?

Maybe. Maybe in 2 years we'll be "picking through the rubble and pulling out our hair". Maybe Noam Chomsky will sound like the Book of Revelations, preaching at us "I told you so" from podiums of broken airplanes. Maybe those stockpiling tinned food and gasmasks know what's coming.

"The Beyond" is created from this feeling, up there with Godspeed you, Black Emperor's f#a#oo as either a prophesy or document of modern day apocalypse, but in a very different way. Just as Godspeed progressed from tough-guy xXx to orchestrated string-filled ambience, Cult of Luna have obviously originated in a political hardcore background, but the music has become slower, thicker and altogether unrecognisable as "punk". Guitars emit low buzzing drones, the singers garrotted roar forces its place amongst the low rumbles and clashes. Violins and scattergun electronics and distorted bass all fight together to create the sound of cities falling, of losing the only battle you've ever fought, of heroism meaning nothing.

For amongst the Neurosis-style doom, stones from the sky and all, resonates a strong sense of loss. The Watchtower's refrain of muted baritone really anchors the otherwise angry song in deep melancholy, Leash's clanging discord is underpinned by pushing nervous drumming, all emerging into the epic eschatology anthems that Cult of Luna have honed since their debut. The pounding of Arrival is drawn out, incessant, draining the listener with constant enveloping sound of finality, a trait shared with all of these songs. Layers and layers of noise all flow with each other in 8 minute barrages, all marching and falling towards one thing

The End.

Through her eyes you'll see that it's true what was said, "**Wherever the river flows it's running red**".