Reviewed by Ian Webber

Hailing from Sachen Germany, this four piece metalcore band are experienced campaigners. This, their third full length release is certainly a step up in quality from previous offerings. 'Das Ende Einer Wahrheit' ('The End Of A Truth') is described as a new beginning for the band and is certainly well-produced and tight. Obviously influenced by American post metal bands, Saphena also have an abrasive, industrial quality to their sound, mixing grinding guitars with electronica and snarled vocals. All the lyrics are in German of course and only the album credits break into English which leaves the listener with the incessant growls which only rarely subside into a cleaner style with some nice harmonies. More accessible tracks include "Ohnmacht" ("Powerless") with its electronic intro and metronomic qualities and "Die Last Meiner Welt" ("The Burden To My World") which clocks in at 10 minutes and is full of variety. In truth this recording takes a few listens to get into, but a decent set of headphones will allow you to hear some of the extra samples and more European influences that give this release an individual sound.

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