I'm under the impression that front man Steele was responsible for much of Type O Negative's musical writing. It blossoms again in refined directions on this final record. His passing a few years later sealing the groups fate, them choosing not to continue on without him. From the offset, Dead Again bestows a different intensity. Distanced somewhat from the Gothic tonal cheese, always orchestrated with emotional connection, Steele leans into certain inspirations present since their inception.
Kicking off with dense guitars lunging into burly Doom Metal groans, followed by a sudden energetic drive of hurried Hardcore aggression, the metallic, mainly Black Sabbath inspired focus makes itself known. Equally split with The Beatles influences and Pop Rock ideals from decades back, many songs beautifully journey through lengthy non-linear song structures. It gives the record a perpetual sense of excitement, as more gratifying compositions seem to lurk around every corner.
Now entirely stripped of prior flirtations with crass humor and noisy aesthetic interludes, their collective eclecticism flows focused and gratifying. Barely a wasted second goes by, Steele leans into his vision and delivers a plethora of intriguing arrangements. Personally its clearly cathartic, channeling catchy lyrics over grabbing melodies, they frequently skirt easy conventions, offering truly distinct music.
Some songs stick to one of its three main styles, others easily chop through wildly different intensities as Doom Metal, Hardcore and Pop Rock get a fascinating salute from these brooding Gothic oddballs. Its seems with age came maturity and the hunger of expression never faded. Dead Again has a notable shift yet with it an awe and fascination as to how the odd mix of chemistries could emerge again as exciting as ever! Despite the remarkable impression October Rust left on me, I get a sense this could be my favorite given more time to sink in.
Rating: 9/10