I've got to give high marks first and foremost for the brilliant and truly awesome title track instrumental that leads off Howling Syn's debut album for newly formed Galy Records. The instrumental provides a luscious intro into the well-crafted gothic metal sound of this Montreal-based trio. The dual vocal tradeoffs of singer / guitarist / bassist Patryk Pigeon and singer Sophie LeMay is done with tenderness, the transitions from singer to singer only bringing out a wonderful emotional feel to the music. The overall feel of the music of Howling Syn caters to a dark, gothic feel that wallows in sorrow and emptiness, though at times the tempo rises to a near-feverish pace thanks in part to some fancy keyboard work and tight rhythm section. Overall, Howling Syn's "Forebearers of Dusk" is a worthy addition to a bottle of red wine and some scented candles.

by A. Bromley