Medusa

"Medusa" is the fifteenth studio album by the British gothic metal band Paradise Lost. Released on September 1, 2017, the album marks a return to the heavier, doom metal style that characterized the band’s earlier work, particularly reminiscent of their first few albums. This shift contrasts with some of their more recent releases, which incorporated more gothic rock and electronic influences.

The album was produced by Jaime Gomez Arellano and released through Nuclear Blast. "Medusa" features themes of mythology and darkness, which are consistent with the band's well-known lyrical focus on despair, melancholy, and existential themes. The album's title refers to the mythological figure Medusa, hinting at themes of transformation and the monstrous power within.

Musically, "Medusa" is characterized by its slow tempos, heavy guitar riffs, and a blend of both clean and growled vocals by lead singer Nick Holmes. This style resonates with fans of traditional doom and gothic metal, making it a favorite among those who appreciate the heavier side of Paradise Lost's musical spectrum.

The album received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised the band's return to a heavier sound and the cohesive aesthetic of the album. It also contributed to reaffirming Paradise Lost's status as a pioneering band in the gothic and doom metal scenes.