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After having gone mallcore for what seemed like an eternity, a big influential metal band finally finds its way back home – a rare moment indeed. "In Requiem" is one such instance – the heaviest, 'most metal' Paradise Lost album since the mid-nineties.

The major difference here is that Paradise Lost seem to be focusing on atmosphere and heaviness rather than pop music and purely catchy melodies. The Backstreet Boys look is also gone, the hair is long again and the drab black clothing is back. The guitars are more prominent and Nick Holmes has added more fire and grit to his voice. But I'm not raving about a masterpiece that isn't exactly here. There are still a few parts that reek of what PL have been doing for the past 10 years or so.

It's a pretty good mix overall between "Draconian Times" and "Icon" and there's no Doom/Death here to speak of. But the first few tracks have that "Shades of God" and "Icon" melancholy and moodiness in the guitars and the time is actually being spent building atmosphere with good leads and tempo changes. "Praise Lamented Shade" or "Sedative God" for example, are incredibly well-written tracks that will take you many, many years back - Heavy, slow and extremely moody. Sadly though, half the album sounds more in line with "Draconian Times" leftovers rather than any of their real classics, but there's enough bulls eye shots in there to keep you interested throughout.

To sum up, this is not exactly a glorious return to fiery form that fans would like (or some are already raving about). But after 12 years, Paradise Lost have finally cranked out an album that is not only worth listening to, but is actually very good. It is however, not exceptionally special but it's nice to see that the fathers of Gothic Metal have lent an ear to what their fans have been crying about for so long. The fans will like "In Requiem"; maybe even love it. But for all the other guys, I'd say wait for the next release. PL have been falsely promising a return forever and "In Requiem" has put some money where their mouth is. But it's more like they brought a stack load of coins to the table rather than bills. Next time guys…but good job nonetheless.