UMUR
"Cimmerian" is the debut full-length studio album by Australian death metal act Templestowe. The album was independently released in October 2009. Templestowe were formed in 2007 and disbanded again in 2010, so they were a relatively short lived act, and "Cimmerian" was their only album release.
Stylistically Templestowe play a very melodic type of death metal influenced by artists like In Flames, At The Gates, Dark Tranquility, and when they are most fast-paced and energetic The Black Dahlia Murder. The latter influence is only heard very seldom though. So the material on the 10 track, 48:17 minutes long album may not be the most unique sounding on the scene (although the band occasionally venture into semi-progressive territories), but Templestowe fully make up for the lack of originality with a convincing and passionate performance. These guys are very well playing/singing and the listener is treated to one powerful riff after another, soaring lead melodies/harmonies, powerful rhythmic playing, and a commanding snarling/growling lead vocalist. Everything just works here and the tracks are also well written and memorable.
"Cimmerian" features a powerful and detailed sound production, so it´s also a high quality release in that department. Considering the high quality of all features on the album, it´s a real shame "Cimmerian" ended up being Templestowe´s sole studio album, because there are clear signs here that something great was in the making. A slightly more unique sound and "Cimmerian" would have reached a highher level of excellence, but as it is "Cimmerian" is still a really strong release and a 3.5 - 4 star (75%) rating is fully deserved (and maybe even a bit too low).