Mystic Charm

This small and unknown Dutch death/doom act from the early-mid nineties, has always remained one of those ultra obscure bands, never becoming well known, despite releasing two albums. For a large part we can blame it on their unfortunate mistake of signing with Shiver Records. This label through the years gained a reputation of close to non-existing distribution, poor support for artists and there are even rumours going around that they actively ripped of their artists.

If we look beyond the extremely amateuristic booklet (Looks like a drawing by an 14 year old) and ignore the not always that outstanding production, what we are left with is typical mid nineties death/doom-metal. There are only two slight twists. First of all, Mystic Charm often pushes down the pedal and speeds up to full ramming speed. Second, the vocals are apparently done by a woman. Both these elements remind me a bit of Forty Days Longing.

Other than this, there isn't really much to say about this release. Solid and steady Death/Doom-metal with some atmospheric elements, well executed and not something you would regret once bought. But to claim this album is world shocking or an absolute must have would be overdone. The main reason for snapping it up as soon as you see this in some second hand bin (only place I think you will still find it) would be that it is ultra rare. You won't be buying a bad CD for sure, but if you're still building up your collection there are many other bands to look out for before ever considering Mystic Charm's 'Shadows of the Unknown'.

Source: http://www.doom-metal.com/reviews/mc.html