Metalcatto
We’re back with Green Carnation. It feels like yesterday when Part I came out, and now we’re ready for A Dark Poem, Part II: Sanguis. I’d like to say this is the longest part of the album, but no. The music, the promo, the emotions—everything is going to be long. But fear not, because I’m going to review this in the same heretical length you’ve grown used to.
Alright, so from the start, Part II is as similar as it gets to Part I. Oh wow, Catto, you really dug deep there. Stop the sarcasm, kid, because I still need to set expectations properly. The two parts are thematically consistent and support each other well in building a larger narrative. However, Part II is more direct and heavier in its approach. Not a huge difference overall, but the songwriting here does feel more aggressive and less contemplative than its predecessor, which is honestly a plus in my book. The urgency adds a layer that keeps things engaging.
I’m happy to report that Green Carnation remains as melancholic as usual. The musicianship hasn’t suffered at all over time. Despite how mellow and clean the album can be at moments, details of these guys’ brilliance are always present—in the synth melodies weaving through the background, the subtle bass lines that anchor everything, or the slow but consistent build-ups that reward patience. The band shows effective restraint throughout, never overplaying its hand or descending into self-indulgence.
So, what didn’t I like? I understand that Part II offers a more compact experience than its predecessor, but I’m left expecting more overall. The album starts strong and then becomes too soft for my taste by the end. Even if it’s done well—and it is—there’s definitely some edge missing here. Surprises are limited, and the trajectory feels predictable once you’re past the halfway mark. Yet Green Carnation‘s style and craft are too unique to ignore entirely, even when it plays it safe.
I’ve come to terms now that Green Carnation will never make another Light of Day, Day of Darkness. However, that doesn’t mean things have to suck. In fact, the band shows it can still deliver moving Metal that touches you right in your childhood memories. Even if we’ve been there and done that, we can still do it again—like drugs, but legally and with better production values. So satiate your completionist mania and listen to this one. It won’t change your life, but it might make the afternoon feel a little more meaningful.
Label: Season of Mist
Release date: 3 April, 2026
Website: https://greencarnationsom.bandcamp.com/
Country: Norway
Score: 3.5/5.0
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