Kalamazoo, Michigan's own goth-pop outfit, featuring Ken Magerman (head honcho of Sounds &Shadows) and Collin Schipper have released their brand new and long awaited album, "Gothtimism" into the world. Taking cues and inspiration from the greats like Sisters of Mercy, but also putting their own modern spin on a classic sound, Amaranth weaves an intricate blend of sounds into a constantly evolving musical tapestry. Opening track "Thighs" is a midtempo exercise in sonic seduction, as Ken's baritone voice croons over smooth basslines and glittering guitars. "My Turn Again" turns a different page, as the pace quickens into a semi-industrial dancefloor anthem, with wonderfully crunchy guitar riffs and a kick drum boom that doesn't stop until the very last beat. "Gothtimist" starts off as gloomy as any goth rock anthem, with a surprisingly optimistic theme; which is such a breath of fresh air, I relished every second that this song played for its almost 6 minute play time. "Noxious" sees a definitively more aggressive side of Amaranth, as the track calls out internet "fuck boys" in a bout of the most righteous anger. Characterized by chainsaw guitars, pounding percussion, and eerie synths, Ken Magerman's powerful shouts of indignation round out the aural assault on toxic masculinity. But the album isn't all serious; songs like "Keeping My OnlyFans" and "Goblin Raiding Party" inject a cheeky sense of humor that is so desperately missing from the genre. Too often do we take ourselves so seriously, and Amaranth prove on "Gothtimism" that life is simply too short for that. Even goths smile, and this writer dares you to be in a bad mood after listening to this album.
Standout Tracks: "Noxious", "I'll Fall With Your Knife (Peter Murphy Cover)"
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