SIGH

I Saw The World’s End (Hangman’s Hymn MMXXV)

Japan’s Sigh is celebrating their 35th anniversary by re-recording their 2007 album Hangman’s Hymn, re-titled as I Saw The World’s End (Hangman’s Hymn MMXXV) . According to the band’s leader, Mirai Kawashima, even when this is not his favorite Sigh record, it is his favorite composition-wise. Given the extensive career the band has undergone, it is no surprise that the sound and themes within their varied albums have changed; however, they remain one of the most prominent acts of avant-garde black metal from Japan. A band like Sigh has had its share of ups and downs, with people considering Imaginary Sonicscape their masterpiece, but for a band that has been active this long, the consistency throughout their entire discography is something not many bands can achieve.

When compared to the original recording, the drum work by Mike Heller makes a huge difference, by sounding cleaner and better produced. The orchestral arrangements were also improved, which makes it sound fresher and more grandiose than the original recording. It’s interesting to note that the song list has been slightly changed to consist of 12 songs, instead of the original 10. However, the album duration is just a few seconds longer than the 2007 version. Overall, it was a good idea to go through with the re-recording and add that final touch that elevated the original album to the best version of itself.