Very rarely do you find an album that is at once a musical feast and an epic storytelling event. "Mystery of the Whisper" is as brilliant as "Downward Spiral" (NIN) in concept, and yet musically and lyrically far superior.

Its combination of melodic (even classical) arrangement and hard-edged, danceable rhythms make it a treat for the discerning fan of goth, darkwave, industrial, folk, 80's rock, even opera!

The plot is also intricate and sophisticated. It does deal with the simple and traditional "album story" where lovers meet and tragically loose each other. But the subplot of religious development, disillusionment, and completion take it far beyond the typical cliche stories of modern music and into the realm of mythology.

"Mystery..." is, as its title's allusion to the old mystery-cults implies, at last an experience of transcedent art and a deeply personal expression of the divine.

I love this band with all my heart. Their music inspires me, comforts me, and lifts me. This is one of my favorite cd's of theirs and I really can't say enough good things about it. Every song on here is unique and wonderful!

The Crüxshadows, originating from Florida, most likely had a great challenge creating a follow-up as bright and as original as their official debut album, "Telemetry of a Fallen Angel," but "Mystery of the Whisper" stands very well on its own. The album is consistently wonderful all the way through, and requires a lot of repeated listenings to fully appreciate the complex array of sounds, imagery and thoughts. You hear something new each time. Stand-out tracks include the edgy "Cruelty," the emotional depth of "Breathe," and the bitter-sweet melancholy of "Sympathy (for Tomorrow.) I highly recommend this album and look forward to seeing how one of my favorite bands continues to develop.

The liner notes point out that this is "the second album in the Angels cycle", and it is hard to review this without some reference to the previous album, 'Telemetries of a Fallen Angel.' Both feature excellent yet straightforward songwriting, a well-defined but not heavy-handed theme, and outstanding, emotional vocal performances by lead singer Rogue. Unlike the previous album, it's a little more cohesive musically, and a little more obviously "gothic" in influence.

The music itself is fairly simple, with Rogue's Peter-Murphy-esque vocals high in the mix. Programmed drums figure heavily, and competent (yet sometimes underutilized) guitars, keyboards, and violins fill out the sound. The sound of "gothic" acts like Rosetta Stone, Bauhaus, and Alien Sex Fiend are there, but with more emphasis on emotions and balladry than punky rock tunes. (Although there are a few driving numbers that will surely fill the floors of underground dance clubs!)

I wish the theme was as unique as the previous album, and I think the cover & insert art is not as interesting as that of the previous album. But the music has grown and improved without radically changing, and I've enjoyed repeated listens. This band has earned its underground reputation and I highly recommend both albums to date.

After listening to the Cruxshadows' new album, Mystery of the Whisper, I found myself in a profound state of mind. The music is poignant, soulful, and completely draws you in. There is so much emotion woven into their music. Lyrics and music weave a spell around your heart, seemingly demanding that you must feel the heartache from such songs as "Monument," "Cruelty," and "Sympathy (for Tomorrow)." This album has a wonderful blend of gothic music and Middle Eastern sounds with the Egyptian touch. Very artistic and creative!