Paradise Lost's Draconian Times falls between stark, oppressive goth rock and crunching heavy metal. It's a bit more experimental than their earlier efforts, as it displays subtle industrial influences -- there's the occasional barrage of samples -- as well as more keyboards and a chorus, perhaps appropriately dubbed the "Dead Boys Choir." Draconian Times is intentionally unwelcoming music, but those who want to dwell deep inside its twisted corridors will find a few pleasures. Paradise Lost may not be terrific songwriters, but they can create and sustain a mood. ~ Daevid Jehnzen, All Music Guide
"Paradise Lost may not be terrific songwriters, but they can create and sustain a mood." In being able to create that mood properly I'd call these guys good songwriters!
I agree with the other comments - the review is way off base. This is by far my favorite Paradise Lost album, and the only one that I can come back to again and again. More than on any other album, they seem to have really hit their stride on this one.