In Solitude takes the whirls and twirls of Mercyful Fate's dark metal and dive in another dimension of shadowy blackness, if that were ever possible. Riffs are generally spread throughout each tune in great number, never overtly-annoying with repetition. The riffs speak to an ancient vibe of rocking traditionalism, often coloring NWOBHM-ish flavors and nodding patterns that sound like everyone's favorite guitar duo from Denmark...and maybe a black metal riff(!) opening "We Were Never Here." Pelle Åhman makes this ritualistic ceremony even better; he has a lower voice than King Diamond, but his tone fits the record perfectly. No falsettos? Åhman has no problem. The opening songs start the initiation with a bang, colorfully exploring heavy metal's finest characteristics through awesome choruses and dynamic guitar work. "Poisoned, Blessed, and Burned" shows In Solitude siphoning their sound for anything worthwhile, but the song unfortunately succumbs to lackluster musicality and forgettable sections. Definitely the weak spot of the album.

The record really goes into an upswing after that mild inconsistency, however. "Demons" and "To Her Darkness" strive into brilliant riffing layered upon In Solitude's demonic tenor wonderfully; two numbers that will definitely turn some heads. "Dance of the Adversary" is another catchy cut doused in another collection of masterful instrumentality, something this band clearly has a grip on. The record's climax takes places during the concluding epic "On Burning Paths," which is nearly fourteen minutes of blackened bliss. The song takes a number of twists and drops like a rollercoaster from the netherworld; with galloping riffs, dazzling guitar work, sensational rhythms and a chorus worthy of a temple. A total showcase of musical domination, no doubt about it.