GOTHMINISTER GOTHIC ELECTRONIC ANTHEMS ALBUM TATRA RELEASE: FEBRUARY 24, 2003 REVIEW: MARCH 24, 2003

The Norwegian minister of Goth is back again, now with a full album. Almost all the songs from the previously released EP “Angel” are on this album, but this time much better executed. Guitars have entered the electro picture this time, and they fit very well. They spice up the sound and gives it more weight, which is what a band like this needs. All in all, a step in the right direction.
This is not anything new or original though, just pretty well done. The minister himself really excels in looking übergothic all the time, almost to the point that it becomes funny. I think this band can find listeners in the more adventurous metal crowd, that perhaps are more attuned to this kind of imagery, but mayhap some goth fans might like it too. The straightforward title “Gothic Electronic Anthems” points to where Gothminister wants to go.
The slower ballads are decent, with “March of the Dead” taking the lead for me. It slowly builds up towards the end, and features soft female singing as well. This stuff is much better than the EP, and “Hatred” is a competent industrial dance smasher, which I think has a good chance of becoming a hit. Try this album if you like Rammstein, Deathstars or perhaps if you just are after some flashy gothic imagery.

JOHAN CARLSSON