Lying Figures – Inheritance

Pegah

The French Melodic Death/Doom Metal band Lying Figures returns after a long hiatus with its new album, Inheritance. This time, Frédéric Simon (vocals & bass) and Matthieu Burgaud (guitars) guide us on a profound introspective journey, confronting emotions long buried or ignored. The album delves into deeply personal themes, exploring self-alienation, frustration, inner conflict, despair, and disorientation. These ideas are mirrored in the album cover, which portrays a dark, abandoned cityscape devoid of light, teetering on the brink of collapse. The inverted city hints at duality and the tension between mind and body, as well as a fractured sense of reality. The dominant red tones evoke intense emotions such as self-expression, aggression, and resilience, while birds and barren branches in the corners suggest life fleeing this desolate scene.

The album seamlessly blends clean and growling vocals, each adding distinct textures. Several tracks include monologues in both English and French—my personal favorites—evoking the intimacy of a heartfelt conversation with a close friend. Inheritance opens with “Nothing to Claim […]”—a track that begins with an ambient intro, echoing the sound of an abandoned city. It embodies loneliness and sets a dreamlike tone. “Addicted to Negativity” follows, jolting us into harsh reality. Next, “Euphoria and Misery” uses contrasting composition to portray the eternal inner and outer struggle that leads to self-alienation. “Watch Me Fall” starts more slowly, capturing the sensation of losing control, inner chaos, and helplessness.

“A Great Void,” one of my favorites, paints a bleak picture of life constrained by imposed fate, leaving the listener in a dark, lightless city consumed by emptiness. Following this intensity, “… And Nothing to Give” offers a brief respite, preparing us for the album’s final stretch.

The longest track, “Death into Heredity,” features guest vocalist Deha. His duet with Frédéric perfectly complements the song, which explores the naturalist concept of heredity as a force shaping human identity. Nearing the album’s conclusion, “Self Hatred” opens with a heavy, regret-laden intro, expressing a yearning for life despite feelings of abandonment. “Remembrance” feels like a sequel to “Self Hatred,” reflecting on what has been and what remains, leaving an indelible mark of one’s existence. The final track, “Contemptus Mundi,” stands out with a distinct beginning. The title refers to a serene detachment from material concerns, critiquing a superficial world on the brink of collapse. The vocals grow increasingly intense, almost scream-like, evoking the desperation of Edvard Munch’s The Scream and a desire to break free from frustration.

In conclusion, Inheritance deeply resonates with me, aligning with my current emotional state. I highly recommend it to fans of both Doom Metal and Melodic Death Metal. If you enjoy bands like Paradise Lost, Tiamat, or Insomnium, don’t hesitate—give this album a listen. It’s the perfect companion for these cold autumn days. Let your ears find something that feels true to you!

Label: Meuse Music Records

Release date: 14 November, 2024

Website: https://www.facebook.com/lyingfiguresofficial/

Country: France

Score: 4.5/5.0!