It’s a good time to be a Liv Kristine fanboy. Last year we had a brand-new album in the shape of River Of Diamonds. The year before it was a gorgeously remastered edition of her second album, Enter My Religion. And now, we faithful have been rewarded with an opulently remastered and expanded edition of her debut solo album Deus Ex Machina, which was originally released in 1998.
Liv Kristine is, of course, a hugely influential figure in the world of gothic metal, but for this album the metal was retired in favour of a rich, atmospheric and evocative sound that at times leans to towards electronica, and at others towards ambient. Present and correct throughout, though, is the gothic influence. Gothic is hardwired into Liv’s DNA, it seems, and that’s no bad thing.
The title track is sparse, delicate and beguiling, and effectively sets out Liv’s stall for what’s to follow. In The Heart of Juliet seduces you with an irresistible melody which leads us to what is the standout track of the album; 3 A.M. Featuring Nick Holmes of Paradise Lost, this is a magnificently atmospheric cut; electronica-heavy, brooding and ominous. For me, it’s one of Liv’s finest moments.
Waves of Green bewitches us with its sumptuous ambient feel. This is followed by what is probably the catchiest track on the album, Take Good Care. Everything about this song is exquisite, and the hook is never to be forgotten.
Huldra Part I is where the gothic meets the sublime. It’s a monumentally epic track that wouldn’t sound out of place in a big-budget fantasy movie, and features an incredible vocal performance from Liv. This is where she goes full soprano, and the results are astonishing. In complete contrast, Good Vibes Bad Vibes has a fantastic Oriental flavour which reminded me a little of the Akira soundtrack, which is no bad thing.
If you shell out for the vinyl edition you’ll get a version of Portrait: El Tulle Med Øyne Blå featuring Geir ‘Gerlioz’ Bratland of Dimmu Borgir. The deluxe digisleeve CD, on the other hand, comes with a whole bonus disc, featuring a feast of alternative versions, remixes and demos. The metalheads (such as my good self) will be especially interested in the Hard Guitar Mix of the title track, which sounds tremendous. Another highlight is Huldra Part II, which incredibly manages to out-epic Part I, with its German narration, thunderous sound effects and soaring soprano. It’s genuinely awe-inspiring and gave me goose bumps.
This new release of Deus Ex Machina has been produced and packaged with love, care and attention, and is a must-have for any fan. Another aspect I have to mention is the final mix. Truly, the sound quality of this album is phenomenal; full, crystal clear and deeply satisfying. It’s like being wrapped in silk.
Needless to say, I have both the signed platter edition on vinyl and the signed CD, which are available from Liv’s official website. Make sure you pick this one up because it was well worth waiting for.
Deus Ex Machine by Liv Kristine is released by Allegro Talent Media and is out now.
RICHARD E. ROCK 
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