Ever since they lurked onto the scene, DOMINUM have always been there in my times of need, particularly when I have been ill. Ever since it landed in my inbox, their latest offering, Night Is Calling, has been one worth going back to several times. Now it’s out for the masses to get infected by… I mean, enjoy immensely. It shows that this horde of zombies are going to drag you along for the ride, whether you are ready for it or not.
Following on from that point, opening track The Circus Is in Town does exactly that: it drags you by the ankles whilst you’re kicking and screaming to be let go. I always say the best openers lure you in whilst hitting you with an enormous impact, and this is exactly what The Circus Is in Town does. It takes you into a twisted carnival of chaos and horror, whether you are ready for it or not. It’s full of twists and turns that will have you clinging on for dear life and wondering which way to turn next.
This album has a great mixture of tracks that will suit any undead soul wanting to experience the delightfully horrific antics this horde of zombies has to offer. There are already offerings out there, such as the catchy sounds of Doctor Doctor, the pumping tones of the title track and the beautifully sombre tones of Dark Melodies. There are also offerings that haven’t been released as singles yet, which you can now experience. I will tell you about a few favourites.
The jaunty, haunted-house-like tune drew my attention to Nosferatu instantly. This continues throughout the track, alongside some heavy riffs that bring FEUERSCHWANZ to mind, the track Totentanz in particular. Given that they have collaborated, I wouldn’t be surprised if there were some influences from them in there somewhere. No complaints from me if that’s the case.
A lot of songs about the infamous serial killer Jack the Ripper are often sinister and creepy, but not DOMINUM’s take. It takes a more upbeat and pumping turn; in some ways, that adds to the eeriness of it all. My interpretation is that it emulates him running after his victims, or the adrenaline the citizens of London felt knowing he could have been lurking around the corner. The symphonic tones in the bridge give a grand climax to him completing a night’s work.
The title I Don’t Drink Wine grabbed my attention on its own, and the track’s uplifting spirit followed. The symphonic elements wouldn’t be out of place in a film where there is an epic battle going on and it’s uncertain who will come out on top.
It ends on an uncertain note with Endzeit, which leaves you wondering if the story is over. Either way, it’s worth sticking around for acoustic versions of previously released tracks: the empowering Don’t Get Bitten By The Wrong Ones and the uplifting Hey Living People. I ought to mention there is a brilliant take on Michael Jackson’s classic Thriller.
Night Is Calling shows that DOMINUM are intent on recruiting zombies to join their ever-growing horde, and I believe they will be successful in this mission. If you are even mildly curious after reading this, I recommend checking out this latest offering.
Rating: 8/10
Words: Lotty Whittingham
Night is Calling is out now.
Find DOMINUM here.
