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Norway's Trail of Tears continues to make good use of the "beauty and the beast" vocal style on album #6, Oscillation. Catherine Paulsen plays the role of "beauty," with her strong soprano range, and Ronny Thorsen is the "beast." There's nothing particularly outstanding on Oscillation, just strong Gothic/Power Metal that sounds great but doesn't leave a huge impression. The vocals play off each other well as they lament the usual gloomy and solemn topics. Musically, these Norwegians are in the Epica/Imperia/Tristania camp so fans familiar with those bands will likely appreciate Trail of Tears but they aren't likely to alter anyone's favorites list. Like most genres, Gothic Metal, with harsh and clean vocals, is crowded with bands both good and bad. Trail of Tears is definitely on the "good" side of the aisle but that only puts them in with a lot of other bands who are just as talented. Oscillation is fun but it isn't a revelation.