Trail of Tears

 Today in 1998 Trail Of Tears released the album Disclosure in Red

Kristiansand,Norway Gothic Metal (early), Symphonic Gothic/Black Metal (later)

Status:Split-up

Years active: 1994-1997 (as Natt), 1997-2013

Formed in 1994 (originally under the name Natt), Trail Of Tears was one of several (mostly) Norwegian bands in the symphonic gothic metal arena, utilizing both male death-ish and female soprano vocals (Theatre Of Tragedy is the traditional standard for such bands, though better reference points here might be labelmates Tristania or The Sins Of Thy Beloved). Their style features several of the trademarks of the genre: lush orchestrations, keyboard/guitar interplay, and grandiose arrangements. There's nothing to fault here, as the musicianship and songwriting are quite well developed, though it has to be said that there's not a lot on offer that others (such as the aforementioned bands) haven't done as well. Some bands transcend metal genres, and Trail Of Tears probably isn't one of them, but they are an accomplished band and their work is recommended to atmospheric/gothic metal fans. Unfortunately personal differences plagued the band and eventually caused their undoing -- first, an announced breakup in 2006 later clarified by band leader Ronny Thorsen as "everyone else left, I'm continuing the band with new members" (which he did), and later, more troubles between Thorsen and vocalist Cathrin Paulsen that underscored the bands' final breakup following 2013's Oscillation.

DSFA Records

Ronny Thorsen Vocals, Lyrics

Helena Iren Michaelsen Vocals, Lyrics

Runar Hansen Guitars (lead)

Terje Heiseldal Guitars (rhythm)

Kjell R. Hagen Bass

Frank Roald Hagen Keyboards

Jonathan Perez Drums, Percussion

Guest/Session

Frank Ørland Guitars (track 6)

1. When Silence Cries... 05:10

2. The Daughters of Innocence 03:34

3. The Day We Drowned 04:40

4. Mournful Pigeon 05:00

5. Swallowed Tears 04:40

6. Illusion? 03:26

7. Enigma of the Absolute 04:05

8. Words of the Fly 02:59

9. Temptress 05:19

10. The Burden 08:05

46:58

All music by Trail of Tears, except "Illusion?," by Frank Ørland.

Recording information:

Recorded in Jailhouse Studio, Norway during September / October 1998.

Produced by Hans Eidskard.

Mixed in Studio RS 29, Holland in October 1998 by Oscar Holleman and Trail of Tears.