For the time being, this is the pinnacle of Tribulation's career, holding a slight edge over its successor, Where the Gloom Becomes Sound. Down Below is a near-perfect demonstration of excellent, horror-tinged and slightly psychedelic gothic metal, delightfully evoking dismay and discomfort and numerous spine-chilling moments. Everything from the husky roar of Johannes Andersson to the guitar work and meaty rhythm section, is very well executed. The dual guitars are intricate, playing nicely off each other in swirling harmony, with everything from light, mournful finger picking and very tasty neoclassical flourishes that never get flashy. Rather, it adds to the sinister atmosphere, which is puffed up further by the layer of keys.

It is difficult to go wrong with anything here, and part of why Tribulation is successful is that they can pull off songs at just about any kind of tempo, with hooks either in the riffs/licks or the vocal lines and choruses. The opening quartet, for example, is varied, with "The Lament" and "Nightbound" in particular sinking its fangs right into you, and "Lady Death" and "Subterreanea" putting heavier emphasis on the gloom. Following a 3-minute instrumental interlude, "The World" and closing number "Come, Become, to Be" are among the highlights on the latter half of the album, which is just as good as the A-side.

This album should not be missed if you're into gothic metal. I'm generally not, but this is just too good to pass over.