Aeons Ov Frost are a Russian band, at the time of this recording consisting of lead guitar player Ivan Von Frost (he did the mastering of this album as well), vocalist / lyricist Iskaald Nazhdaak (he took care of the art design too), bass player Lekx, drummer Ilgal, and second guitarist Timo Hate (and keyboardist Thel’, but on this album, the synth parts were taken care of by Mhiahss’ Vasiliy). Most of the stuff was recorded in summer 2007, and the album, the second one for this band (after 2005’s Iridescent Fear), initially was initially self-released in 2008 with slightly different artwork. Mighty Vacula Productions however have the politeness to re-issue this material, which we all, more or less, have to be grateful for… Though, maybe not either… Oh yes, mind the different consecution of the tracks…
Cold Front brings very epic, rhythmic, melodic and bombastic Symphonic Black Metal with a catchy edge. And with ‘catchy’ I mean ‘catchy’! It comes with all those elements that make this extreme material quite comfortable to listen to: lightning fast and crafted solos, atmospheric and / or orchestral synths, a massive rhythm section, ear-candy-alike song structures and melodies, and even a sound quality as if this was produced at Hertz or Woodhouse Studio. You do not need to have too much fantasy to discover hints in the vein of Retribution (the one from Spain), Dimmu Borgir, Gladenfold, Cradle Of Filth, Saxorior, Eternal Conspiracy, Graveworm or Vesania. The link with Modern Metal, as well as traditional Power / Heavy Metal, is pretty evident, though nicely proportioned all over the album. The performance quality is at least as interesting, but unfortunately, the song writing itself, but that isn’t but my personal opinion, way too easy-listening (despite the intense heaviness). But within this current, Aeons Ov Frost might be one of the most air play oriented ones.
Finally this: the last song, Death, is meant to be a tribute to Chuck Schuldiner (Death, Control Denied), though it’s not a cover. But I think especially the guitar leads are inspired by later Death and Control Denied, so it might make sense…
Overall, I think this release is way too poppy, too over-done in all aspects (song writing, execution and production), and that’s all I have to say.