I really don't know how I feel about this one. Arkan is a gothic-laden extreme metal band that incorporates strong elements of Middle Eastern flare throughout "Salam," an interesting mixture that summons certain similarities to bands like Melechesh or Orphaned Land at times, yet truly pinpoints an oasis of originality within Arkan's scriptures. The overall scheme makes me wonder just what Arkan had in mind, and I'm quite sure that their intentions are much purer than the record's seminal content. "Salam" at times lives up to the compelling items swirling within its prophetic sandstorm, but an unacceptable chuck of the album appeals to the unmemorable side of things as well. It's an average listen with its moments. Nothing I'm building a temple for, however.I'll admit I was polarized by the engrossing elements within "Salam." The way Arkan bends and packages this alloy of blueprints naturally rubbed me the wrong way, what with all the mid-paced riffing and growling vocals crammed next to colorful Middle Eastern folk; it should really be a no-brainer that Arkan makes this release noteworthy only because of the folk influence. As a metal band, they have the works: atrocious vocals, dull riffs, horrible structures (like the breakdown on "Inner Slaves"), forgettable progressions, and generally more bad than good. But Arkan is saved like a sinner on Sunday whenever the group's bombastic folk influence takes complete and utter control of "Salam," and I'm not just talking about the structures of their songs or melodies; these Frenchies actually use authentic Middle Eastern instruments, and wonderfully too.
And that's the prime cut of this album as far I'm concerned. The folk side predominantly appears for the intros, outros, and interludes, but wow, it's really an extensive showcase of beauty and precision. The band's metal barrage becomes quite bearable once these elements are fused into Arkan's soul. Surprise, surprise! Unfortunately, when the mandolas and bouzoukis disappear, so does the magic. I do have to mention Sarah Layssac's soothing vocals, which are perfect for this kind of sound; her voice mixes very well with the mid-paced assault and the folk ideology, and I'm surprised she isn't wowing international crowds with a voice so mighty. Her masterful leads throughout "Call From Within" match the flowing instrumentality of Arabic pastures in an otherworldly essence of power; truly the record's finest offering.
So basically, Arkan hits about 50-50. I mean, the folk themes and experiments are simply dazzling demonstrations of Middle Eastern influence gleefully embracing the aggression and power of extreme metal, but some of the songs and musical performances are really lackluster and unacceptable. "Salem" unquestionably transpires beyond the realms of basic metal, and Arkan will at least create an unusual and diversified experience overall, but there's still not enough substance to prove the unrelenting strength of Arkan or its testimonies. This one probably depends on taste, but proceed with caution regardless.