Words Are Not What They Seem

'Words Are Not What They Seem' is the last slab of material that Autumnblaze ever issued to the public before the band decided to split-up for good. Markus was the only remaining member and had decided it was time for Autumnblaze to hang up their guitars and put the drums away for good in the hope that he could fulfil his musical ambitions with his new project, Sidewaytown, who I am yet to hear.


'Words Are Not What They Seem' is only the second full-length recording that I have managed to hear from this German outfit, so I have little to compare it too. What I do have, is an album that I considered to be mediocre in parts and fairly decent in others. 'Words Are Not What They Seem' follows a similar path to previous recordings it would seem. There are certain sections which I adore beyond all recognition, and certain parts i'd simply rather forget. It's a shame as Autumnblaze and this record in particular had so much potential, but unfortunately, it was never really harnessed in a way that would make me stop what I was doing in order to listen with adoration.


'Words Are Not What They Seem', as previously stated, follows a seemingly set pattern that the band cannot escape. Incredibly depressing sections are filled to the brim with melancholic guitar leads and sublime vocals which accurately depict the lyrical themes with grace and a tender touch. It's these sections which really showcase Autumnblaze's potential as a leading depressive rock band. However, yet again there are simply too many bland moments.


One new addition to me is the rasping vocals. They add nothing to the depressive side of the music. They lack imagination and are simply there to fill the gaps. However, they do not. They become tedious and fortunately, they aren't used very often. This is a fact which really does make me question why they are used at all. There is simply no need for them. The spoken word and slower variation of vocals are better used and more emotive. They add a sense of passion and belief in what Autumnblaze are doing.


'Words Are Not What They Seem' is actually far better than the other full-length by this band that I have heard. Although initially I didn't appreciate the harsher sounds of Autumnblaze too much, they're used in a far more expressive manner this time. Coupled with another great show on vocals, they are used well and to the best of Autumnblaze's abilities. Having said that, I still prefer the mellow side to Autumnblaze in every respect.


Thankfully, that mellow side is always flowing through their music, it's never overshadowed by the poor rasping vocals or the sometimes furious percussion sections which don't have a place on this full-length. The lyrics can seem a tad 'cheesy' at times, but I suppose they suit the almost romantic feel the acoustic and piano sections make. I was glad to see a vast array of instruments being used. Piano sections, acoustics and synths are ideal for Autumnblaze.


In conclusion, 'Words Are Not What They Seem' is a more positive and overall better full-length record than the other one I have heard.