Ava Inferi has united some seemingly opposed characters. This is mostly a Portuguese act, fronted by a female vocalist, Carmen Simoes, better known for her appearances with Moonspell. Now comes the dark knight from the kvlt Norwegian band Mayhem, guitar player Rune Eriksen. Those two realities have joined forces in creating a solid album of Gothic Doom Metal.
Blood of Bacchus has very little to do with Black Metal, besides its darkness, subtle melodious leads and intensity. Carmen's voice is multi-faceted: angelic, powerful, adventurous, eerie etc… This disc ventures into the finer harmonies and emotions often found in Doom Metal. The guitar work, in the riffing department does not fail in its mission to bring home the juicy and powerful tones either. This multicultural blend is also reflected in the song titles and lyrics. Although not specified, I could decipher piano and cello parts in a few instances, which is a plus for the melodic side of their music. I could mention quite a few good tracks here, but I have a weak spot for: "Last Sign of Summer", "Appeler les Loups" (a French title although the lyrics are most likely Norwegian), "Be Damned" and the adventurous title track.
Blood of Bacchus is a great alternative for those who thought that Doom/Gothic music was dead.