The more things change the more they stay the same, or so the saying goes. The way of the world is that mutations are necessary to propel things forward, and never has a truer word been spoken than in the case of the UK's latest Doom sensations, The River. "Different Ways To Be Haunted" demonstrates the bands versatility and ability to progress. 2003's "Oneiric Dirges In Mono", the third demo by the band, showcased the bands talents and as the they themselves stated welcomed a coming of age. Selling over 400 copies world wide, the band knew that their next release would have to not only have to match the standards they set with "Oneiric" but surpass them.

With "Different Ways To Be Haunted" the band have achieved a niche for themselves in an already over populated genre. Giving themselves what make strive for, but few achieve. An identity. In this demo the development, both in quality of song writing and production are the first notable improvements to "Oneiric", and new comers to the band will find the opening track, "A Close Study" a haunting (excuse the pun) experience and heavier than the anvils of hell. The bands trademark low tuned guitars remain and while John Gibbs has since departed the band, his drums under pin and provide a vital rhythm to the soundtrack of solace that echo's through the whole offering.

The jewel in the crown of The River are without question the fragile angelic vocals of front-woman Vicky. The subtle blend between old school, Sabbath influenced Doom and the almost folkish soulful vocals make odd bedfellows; yet the combination works beautifully. Like ying and yang, two ends of an seemingly polar opposite spectrum, they come together to form a perfect union. We are treated to two further tracks. "White Library" and "Broken Window", and while tracking in at just over 21 minutes, you can't help having the feeling that you want more! Next up for the south London Doom merchants is a full length studio album, and on this performance there will be more than one or two labels vying for their signatures.