Ravenheart Music
L'ENDEVI..'WHEN I DESIRE SOMETHING, YOU CAN'T DO ANYTHING'
(Self Released) Reviewed 7th February 2010
The Spanish symphonic gothic metallers, founded in 2007, have unleashed an almighty debut album, starring the alluring Mamen, who has a colossal, dramatic voice. ‘The Fortune-Teller’, from which the band get their name (L’Endevi means soothsayer or fortune-teller), starts out really aggressive, Mamen truly scared the life out of me, but then it changes tempo and turns into soaring symphonic metal. This is followed by the strutting ‘1234’, which also has some groovy atmospheric passages, nice to hear guitarists Jaume and Pater using a wide pallet of sounds on this album. Spain was of course Moorish for centuries until 1492, and this influence unmistakably comes out on the next two numbers, ‘Samsara’ and ‘Hunter of Sounds’, both highly dramatic, with superb drumming by Mario (I love his unique snare sound) and bass from Guille. Good grief, Mamen can really give it some hammer! ‘Magic Meadow Innocent’ starts out doomy before alternating between piano fuelled passages and more powerful sections, then ‘Crystal Eyes’ is heavier and more menacing. ‘Water’s Darkness’ has an atmospheric beginning before they put the pedal to the metal, and ‘Rockburningsoul’ would make a great band name, it starts out bluesy as they name check Whitesnake, before the band erupts. ‘Behind the Wall’ is a mighty, swelling piano ballad, with excellent keys by guest Gines Gil Pacheco, and next the headbanging ‘To The Limit’ really does live up to its name. The last song, ‘Eternal Dream’, shows Mamen’s softer side over gentle guitar arpeggios, before the band blasts off, the sweet ending is delightful. A special mention for the excellent lyrics throughout the album, ‘In your soul I will create a world; a new world that saves your smile, a world where you can play. This song will calm down your tears, your cold tears in my chest. In your soul I will create your smile, believe me’. I believe them totally, L’Endevi have created a unique sound, that blend of Mamen’s awesome voice, Fernando Asensi’s superb production, Mario’s eastern flavoured drums, and the dramatic songs is truly mesmerising. Available by emailing info@lendevi.com and will soon be available from http://www.lendevi.com/, check out their Myspace for more details, www.myspace.com/lendevi 9/10 (Reviewed by Phil Wooldridge)
ALANA GRACE..'ONE WORD'
(Fragile Heart Records) Reviewed 6th February 2010
Los Angeles born Alana Grace has been a musician I have been aware of for a wee while now, as well as a prolific songwriter, singer, performer and yes, even a working actress. So to be able to get my grubby paws on this disk, well I was quite pleased to say the least, as it does not seem to be readily available over here. Released in April of last year in-fact, what we have here is 11 tracks of pop/rock in the Avril Lavigne, Kelly Clarkson and Ashlee Simpson mold. I do admit to actually having a soft spot for this style of music, as generally it rocks, it is catchy and there is plenty of melody. The record kicks off with 'Mess Of You' and this track sets the standard as to what is on offer. 'Breaking' follows but the stand out track to my ears has to be 'The Other Side' This is so hideously catchy, it just does not and will not leave your head. There are slower numbers here including 'Black Roses Red', which emerged as the standout track on the soundtrack for the movie 'The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants'. Alana worked on the album in Nashville, Austin and Los Angeles, and recorded with Nick Brophy (Avril Lavigne), Dwight Baker (Kelly Clarkson, Bleu Edmondson) and Mike Greene (Paramore, Good Charlotte).This is a good album, possibly not one for the metalheads out there I admit, but anyone open minded to their music, then it is worth trying to track down. Try iTunes however! 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)
KARNATAKA.. 'THE GATHERING LIGHT'
(Immrama Records) Reviewed 4th February 2010
It’s been a long wait for Karnataka fans since the wonderful ‘Delicate Flame of Desire’ back in 2003. Since then the various members have gone on to form the excellent Reasoning and Panic Room, leaving the lynchpin Ian Jones to carry the torch, and this is the first album with the new line-up. Old fans will be wondering whether there have been any changes. Well, the key ingredients are still there, take a goodly portion of Yes/Jon Anderson and put it into a pot, add some Clannad, Renaissance, Pink Floyd and Pendragon, and simmer for 60 minutes. However, there are two interrelated factors that have changed, the songs are now twice as long as before because of the long instrumental passages, and I must emphasise the word instrumental, NOT flash soloing. In fact if you add the opening two instrumentals to the instrumental passages in other songs, especially ‘Forsaken’, then over half the album is instrumental. This is a brave, bold move, but it is in keeping with today’s prog bands who are looking towards longer song structures, for example Porcupine Tree, Transatlantic, and the Mars Volta. The album opens with Troy Donockley’s plaintive uillean pipes, he will be very familiar to Nightwish and Mostly Autumn fans. Listening to the second track, the instrumental ‘State of Grace’, it will come as no surprise that keyboarder Gonzalo Carrera has played with various Yes tribute bands, especially when you hear his climbing crescendos. ‘Your World’ shows that Lisa Fury, with her crystal clear voice, has done an admirable job of taking over the baton from Rachel Jones on this Pink Floydish mid tempo number, powered along by Ian’s funky bass. ‘Moment in Time’ is a lovely Renaissance style song, and Lisa’s voice reminds me of Annie Haslam, with a superb string arrangement and Enrico Pinna’s Dave Gilmour style guitar solo. ‘The Serpent and the Sea’ is similar to Jon Anderson’s Yes, then ‘Forsaken’ has a delicate piano and strings first section, before the band cuts in for a long instrumental passage, showcasing Ian Harris’s skilful drumming, and Enrico’s guitar work brings to mind the great Nick Barrett of Pendragon. ‘Tide to Fall’ is my favourite track, an up-tempo powerful song very much in the vein of the old Karnataka, and the album ends with the epic ‘The Gathering Light’, which begins with Troy’s yearning pipes as the mist rolls down the glens, then drums thunder as the song opens out to reveal the band at their most soaring and Celtic. Some people will say that some of the songs outstay their welcome, and that a bit of judicious pruning would not go amiss, but this album is a massive grower, each listen revealing fresh nuances. This is prog with the emphasis on melody and mood rather than technical flash, and a must buy for melodic prog fans, old and new, indeed anyone who likes their classic rock a little bit adventurous. Available from all the usual outlets and their webshop at http://www.karnataka.netmx.co.uk/index.html . 9/10 (Reviewed by Phil)
ECHOTERRA..'IN YOUR EYES' EP
(Digital download) Reviewed 4th February 2010
Echoterra is a new symphonic metal band featuring female vocals, immaculate production, and world class musicians. In October 2009, their 'The Law Of One' opus was reviewed here. This latest EP offers three songs from that debut album re mastered featuring their new vocalist Melissa Ferlaak, plus two rather awesome instrumentals. Melissa has certainly fitted into the fold well strengthening the Nightwish comparisons, and that cannot be a bad thing. Of interest to fans would be the two piano led intrumentals, 'Bear Mountain' and 'Echoterra Overture'. The full version of the somewhat beautiful 'Bear Mountain' will appear on Echoterra's second full length release due in early 2011. And closing out the EP is the instrumental, 'Echoterra Overture', which is an orchestral medley of songs from the band's debut, 'The Law Of One'. Go to iTunes or cdbaby and download this little opus. And then check out their debut with previous vocalist Suvi. Top quality stuff..8.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)
ABACAY.. 'VICTIMS OF CIRCUMSTANCES'
(Whiterock Records) Reviewed 30th January 2010
Abacay are a duo from Germany comprising keys maestro Miles D. Torrance and the angelic Melany Morganstern, with her delectable soft whispering voice that caresses your ears like a gentle kiss. In case you’re wondering, Abacay is a made up word, but I was in a band called Aborom, which secretly stood for ‘Another Bunch of Randy Old Men’, so who knows! This is ten slices of delightful, danceable, pop/electro/rock, the missing link between Natalie Imbruglia and the Pet Shop Boys, full of lovely keyboard and guitar flourishes, and a subtle undertone of electronica. It is hard to pick out favourites, all the songs would make excellent single choices, but to give you an idea, ‘Dry’ builds into a real dance floor filler, lead single ‘Guitar Girl’ is wonderfully singalong, and ‘Nothing’ is a moody rocker. If you love top class pop/rock, or a metalhead who fancies a change, then I cannot recommend this highly enough. Available from their Myspace site, www.myspace.com/abacay. 9/10 (Reviewed by Phil)
ILUMINATA..'FROM THE CHALICE OF DREAMS'
(Self Release) Reviewed 26th January 2010
After hearing their new EP, I was keen to have a listen to their first album, released in 2008. Sharing vocal duties at that time with Katarzyna’s rock voice was the semi operatic Joanna Nieniewska who was briefly Vision of Atlantis’s new singer last year, before having to bow out due to personnel problems. Joining them in this visual feast is Sabrina who can really tickle those ivories. What you get after the opening instrumental is 11 excellent, up-tempo, symphonic gothic metal songs, with utterly wonderful vocal interplay and rousing choruses. You really cannot fault their ambition and work ethic, almost all the songs race well past 5 minutes, and I was shocked when I saw that ‘Jeanne Antoinette’ had flown passed the 11 minute mark, it certainly did not seem anything like that long thanks to the fact that all the songs have multiple parts and feature superb instrumental sections featuring flute, piano and guitar, including some lovely gentle passages. You get 74 minutes of music shoehorned into this CD, that is certainly fantastic value for money, and the quality never dips, two of my favourites come at the end, the jolly ‘Jack’, and the ballad ‘In The Twinkling of an Eye’, the title of which just about sums the album up. Both songs really showcase that vocal interplay which is so outstanding and gives the band a unique selling point. My only criticism is the rather muddy production, but I upped the treble and downed the bass, and that cleared the murk. This is great for fans of symphonic gothic metal, and with their new EP further wetting the appetite, this has left me hungry for their new opus. Available by contacting the band on their Myspace site http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm? useaction=user.viewProfile&friendID=151260902. 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Phil)
BEL O KAN..'BIRTH OF A QUEEN'
(Brennus Music) Reviewed 25th January 2010
I was saying in my review of Wildpath that France is leading the World in the production of metal bands, well, guess where Bel O Kan come from? This symphonic metal septet were founded back in 2001 and after various line-up changes, trials and tribulations, they have now unleashed their debut CD on Brennus, who are doing a fantastic job in promoting French metal (e.g. Yotangor & Wildpath, etc.). Here you get two alluring blondes for the price of one, lead singer Sarah Liodenot with her pure folkish semi-operatic voice, and Marion Gibello on backing vocals. They get their name from the anthill (no, not the mob in Wacky Races) in Bernard Werber’s Les Fourmis trilogy about a colony of ants, hence the ant motif on the superb cover art (look closely, it is very clever), and no, don’t panic, Adam and his dandy highwaymen are nowhere to be seen. I love the way many French bands of all types introduce a folk element into their music, perhaps it is the strong Celtic link with Brittany, it certainly gives them a unique and distinctive sound and style, that lightness of touch that is so opposite of the Wagnerian Germanic bands. After the suitable grand orchestral ‘ant’ro ‘Birth of a Queen’ there follows a series of up-tempo symphonic semi-power-metalish ‘ant’hems, my favourites include the f’ant’astic ‘Utopia’, which reminds me of early melodic Epica, the fr’ant’ic rocker ‘Runaway’, and the jolly sea sh’ant’y ‘Blowing the Wind’. Vocally, Sarah is at her best when she uses vibrato and does not strain, and more backing vocals would have helped her and the music. That aside, and I do not want to make a mountain out of an anthill, this is a mighty fine first effort, full of great songs and musicianship, with an excellent contribution from Nico Diplanche on keys. Fans of the lighter side of symphonic power and rock metal should scuttle along to http://www.brennus-music.com/boutique/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=&products_id=5248
and gather up a copy. 8.5/10. (Reviewed by Phil)
IRONICA..'VIVERE'
(Poko Records) Reviewed 24th January 2010
Vivere is the second album by the quintet of Finnish power metallers, and they have really amped up their sound for this one. I know it is unfair to compare them with their fellow countrymen Nightwish, but Dark Passion Play provides an easy reference point for the music on offer here, so that you can have an idea what to expect. The dynamic Elina Jarn has a voice that makes Anette Olzon sound like Emma Bunton, no wonder they nickname her ‘Iron’, she can really give it some hammer, whilst guitarist and composer Ville Palin makes Marco Hietala sound like Cliff Richard. The songs range from the ‘Amarath’ pop metal of lead single ‘Dive’, ‘So Fades the Memory’ and ‘From the Dark’, to the more frenetic ‘Bye Bye Beautiful’ style of ‘Stop Me’, ‘Dead Hope’, ‘Suffer For You’ and ‘Reflections’, to the ‘Master Power Greed’ heaviness of the inappropriately named ‘Little Princess’, and the more suitably titled ‘The Beast’. All have big choruses, raging guitars, and melodic keys. It is excellently produced by Hiili Hiilesmaa, but a word of warning, there is so much bottom end you had better call in the structural engineers to check your foundations, talk about bringing the house down! It would have been nice to have had a ballad in the middle, and perhaps a closing epic, but that aside, this will keep Nightwish fans happy who are currently suffering from withdrawal symptoms, as well as people who now find them and other female fronted bands too lightweight and want ‘more metal!!!’. There are loads of online stores selling the album, for example http://www.recordshopx.com/poko/artist/ironica/vivere/?o=l. 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Phil)
DHYAMARA..'GOVANATH'
(Independent Release) Reviewed 20th January 2010
I love it when something shows up in the mail, knowing that the music on offer is going to be...shall we say rather awesome. Dhyamara hail from Italy, which is proving to be a hotbed of rock and metal music at the moment. 'Govanath' I would put into the gothic/electronica/ambient mold, and a damn fine effort it is too. Ninfa provides the vocals, a kinda laid back and at times operatic style, while Luca deals with synths, samples and programming. All four tracks on this little ep strike a chord with me, with the title track being a fave - a rather awesome and very atmospheric offering. The band are planning a full length 10 track album in due course, and I am sure the album will be well worth looking out for in the future. Check Dhyamara out at www.myspace.com/dhyamara and then buy the EP! 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)
ARCANE GRAIL..'ARYA MARGA: NINEFOLD PATH TO INNOCENCE'
(Musica Productions) Reviewed 18th January 2010
Arcane Grail (www.myspace.com/arcanegrail) hail from Russia and comprise of six members, that include the dual vocals of Natalie and Demether. The music they offer the listener could be described as Melodic Symphonic Black Death Metal, or something like that :) Opener 'Arcane Grail' is a brutal affair, that actually saw my cat hiding behind the sofa, and I kid you not. Next track in 'Of Snake and Raven' has beautiful piano combined with the soprano vocals of Natalie The Grail mixed with the brutal death metal vocal style of Demether. 'Autumn With Us Sinned and Lone' carries on the brutal vocal style coupled with the awesome operatics of Natalie, and this could be one of my fave tracks. Other cool tracks include the slower 'Sorrow of Forgotten Pride' and 'Die Sonnenhymne', the latter really showcasing very well the vocal style of Natalie. Okay folks, this release is not one for fans of Kelly Clarkson or Avril Lavigne, but I would imagine fans of Cradle of Filth and the like will lap this up. Cool....7.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)
AUTUMN..'ALTITUDE'
(Metal Blade Records) Reviewed 18th January 2010 (Re-review)
I have already reviewed this cd earlier in 2009, but the review has kinda gone 'missing' from the website. And it seems that my partner in crime Aimee may have deleted it by mistake so she tells me. So lets try again!! Basically, what a corker we have here, and featuring new vocalist Marjan Welman. I will not hide the fact that Autumn are a fave band of mine, and I now have all their albums, including the near impossible to get hold of debut 'When Love Evokes The Curse'. 'Altitude' carries on the good work of their previous outing 'My New Time', with some hard rocking and at times gothy tunes, that to my ears makes this band one of the best on the European music scene. Kicking off with 'Paradise Nox' this really sets the scene as to what to expect on this hard rocking album, and is possibly one of the best songs Autumn has ever recorded. Marjan's vocals are so awesome, and the band has sure found the right match for their gothic metal style. The ballads are cool too, check out 'Synchro-Minds'. This is a very good album, and Autumn has sure been promoted to the Premier League with this release. Great stuff! 9/10 (Reviewed by Dave)
ILLUMINATA..'A FRAME OF BEAUTY' EP
(Self Release) Reviewed 5th January 2010
Illuminata are a young symphonic metal band from Austria, and you get three lovely ladies for the price of one. This new EP is the follow up to their debut album, ‘From The Chalice of Dreams’, released in 2008, and I have asked the band for a copy to review after listening to the quality of these songs. ‘A Frame of Beauty’ and ‘Stormy Sea’ are strong, highly melodic symphonic metal songs, halfway between Within Temptation and Nightwish in style, with lovely instrumental and prog flourishes featuring, guitar, piano and flute. The third song is an acoustic number in Polish, ‘Czlowiek bez twarzy’. The trouble with EP’s is that they over too soon, you start getting into the music, and then it stops, and this certainly left me desperate for more. Available for download from I Tunes, I am really looking forward to the full long player. 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Phil)
GALT AUREUS..'CITADELS'
(Self Release) Reviewed 31st December 2009
The second album from the young alt rock duo from San Diego comprising Saher, on vocals and piano, and Susan on guitar and vocals. Imagine a mixture of Muse, Green Day, My Chemical Romance, Take That and Chopin, and you will have some idea of their wonderful music. Saher is very much the lead singer, his voice a mixture of Billie Joe and Gerard Way, with a touch of Will Young and Jeff Buckley. Susan with her pure voice provides backing vocals and occasional leads. A brief overture leads into 9 symphonic rock opuses, full of drama, passion and emotion, which swing from the tender to the thunderous. Highlights are too many to mention, but ‘Our Own Versailles’ and ‘Eight’ have glorious refrains, ‘Before the Fall’ gives Susan a chance to shine with some delicious piano from Saher before building into an epic, and the album ends with the roar of ‘Conquerors’, with a brief piano coda. This is breathtakingly brilliant; they really deserve to break into the big league, so rush to CD Baby and snap up a copy, 9.5/10 (Reviewed by Philip Wooldridge).
FLYLEAF..'MEMENTO MORI'
(A&M/Octone) Reviewed 18th December 2009
Christian Rocker's Flyleaf's self titled debut was released in 2005 and was a dose of Paramore style rock that I totally adored, especially the track 'I'm So Sick'. Now we have been graced with 'Memento Mori' which carries on the good work of singer Lacey and her band. This may not appeal to the gothic metal heads out there, but I am open minded regards my music, and this is another awesome dose of pop/rock, continuing in the style of Paramore et al. And the lyrics mention amongst other things someone's daughter, this crops up in 2 or 3 of the songs on offer, and it seems she is missed (I have 2 daughters myself). Anyway, 14 tracks of hard hitting pop/rock, with the emphasis on rock. And when you have the names of Howard Benson (Production) and Chris Lord-Alge (Mixing), then I know we are onto a winner. Get it! 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)
CORONATUS..'FABULA MAGNA'
(Massacre Records) Reviewed 17th December 2009
German band Coronatus seem to be moving along in leaps and bounds, and now provide us with their 3rd release of dual female fronted Gothic Metal, only a little over 12 months after their past release 'Porta Obscura'. Lisa Lasch, 19 years young, is now in the fold having replaced Ada Flechtner, and she now forms the singing partership beside the operatic Carmen R. Lorch (formerly Schäfer). Like their past two releases, 'Fabula Magna' moves along at a steady pace, speeding things up on occasion, and this should not disappoint fans of the genre. Coronatus to me seem a band that plod along, and I suppose you could say that the formula does not vary much from release to release. This is nonetheless, cool, bombastic, catchy Gothic Metal with keys, crunching guitars, and with vocals sung in both English and German (I think). No doubt certain reviewers will slag this off claiming it is yet just another female fronted release. However, good luck to the band with this, their latest. It gets released in Europe tomorrow (18th Dec). 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)
ERBEN DER SCHOPFUNG..'NARBEN DER ZEIT'
(M.O.S. Records) Reviewed 11th December 2009
Erben der Schopfung's 2001 debut 'Twilight' has a pride of place in my cd collection. The band were then fronted by the late Sabine Dunser, who then went on to front Elis, before her untimely death. Unfortunately, to put it mildly, problems arose in the camp in those early days, and there were fallouts, certain people behaving out of turn, court actions etc. I could make a film, but I won't! In 2005, mastermind Oliver Falk re formed the band (boy, am I glad he did!), and we now fast forward towards the end of 2009, when 'Narben Der Zeit' has been released. Fronted by the Weltenbrand lass, Dina Falk (who I must thank for sending me this promo), this band has now upped the ante with this release. It is heavier, it is more metallic but with some awesome splashes of Electro and Techno to spice things up a little along the way. The opening salvo of 'Frequency' and 'Jane Churm' get things underway, before the jaw dropping 'Homeless' slows things down. I like this release, but I have always been partial to a little electro/techno, and when this is mixed with some goth, rock and metal, it is near heaven for me! Lovely stuff. 'Der tote See' speeds things up again, and if one is unable to tap their feet to any tracks on this release, then you must have a serious hearing problem, or you are just plain miserable. Check out the ultra cool 'Freeze My Soul' as another example of an awesome tune. To be honest, this is a splendid release, and I just want to wish Oliver, Dina and the gang all the best with it. I would like to see some publicity over here with this record. If Enter Shikari can do it here with their style of Techno Metal, then I am sure Erben der Schopfung can! Great stuff! 9/10 (Reviewed by Dave)
ISAA KAIM..'NO LIMIT'
(Self Release) Reviewed 10th December 2009
The debut album from French belle Isaa, who has a unique deep rich voice that reminds me of a mixture of Cher and Joan Armourplating, sorry, I mean Armatrading. The songs sound like U2, Razorlight, and Snow Patrol put into a blender, with a goodly portion of added oomph. ‘You Saved Me’ and ‘Everlasting Love’, both with lovely delicate intros, are outstanding. Added to this are two Joan Armatrading type ballads, the piano lead ‘It’s Not The Same’ that builds and falls, builds and falls, and the acoustic guitar driven ‘If U Wanna Be A Man’. ‘This World Comes Crashing Down’ is a big rolling Muse type rocker, and ‘Now I Could Cross You’ is Cher when she was a leather clad biker. The whole album is made for radio play, if you like big, powerful, catchy, melodic rock then head to her website, http://www.isaakaim.com/. 8.5 out of 10 (Reviewed by Phil)
HEAVENLUST..'GATE OF ENDLESS DREAMS'
(Self Release) Reviewed 2nd December 2009
HeavenLust are a band that is not afraid to call themselves Italy’s answer to Within Temptation. There are however differences, in particular the dual female and male (clean) vocals from the bello Alessandro and keyboardist and chief composer, Alessio, who both have excellent harmonious voices. The music is slightly rockier, and they also through the odd guitar solo into the mix. The album is made up of eight songs full of wonderful melodies, twinkling piano, plaintive violin, passion and gothic drama. Highlights include ‘Ancient Dream’, ‘Gate of Endless Dreams’, the mournful beauty of swing waltz ‘Behind the Light’, and the sublime closing instrumental, ‘The Death Unites Us’. I found this a totally enjoyable listen, very easy on the ear, and fans of the lighter end of symphonic metal, including of course Within Temptation, will absolutely adore this. The lovely digipack is available through their Myspace site http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=280841718. 8.5/10 (reviewed by Phil)
BLACKTHORN.. 'GOSSAMER WITCHCRAFT'
(Ravenheart Music Records/Code7) Reviewed 2nd December 2009
This was first reviewed on our website 1st March 2009, and since then, Ravenheart Music has signed the band for distribution of this album via Code7. Blackthorn also has a new line-up, and we thought we should review the cd again. Take it away Phil:- This is the intoxicating debut of five enchanting witches from the spirit realms of Russia, an elixir for the mind, body and soul. They blend in their diabolical cauldron a haunting alchemy of symphonic, power and gothic metal, with a devilish infusion of the black arts. Aina’s siren’s call has a pure phantom operatic essence, which will draw you onto the rocks of delirium. It starts with the beguiling ‘Immortelle for a Hollow Grave’, leading you into the Nightwish nightmare of ‘Edenbeast’. An unearthly roar calls you to the demonic dance of ‘Necromance’, howling winds summon the twilight power of ‘The Moon Emerged From Behind The Clouds’, bells toll for the rapture of ‘Saturnia’, followed by the storm lashed roaring thunder of ‘Blackthorn Winter’. The creeping melancholy of ‘The Blackness I Prowl’, then the supernatural allure of ‘Gossamer Witchcraft’, the hypnotic trance of the ethereal ‘Will-o-the-Wisp, and the curtain falls with the macabre piano of ‘The Cobweb Veils Fall Down With Grace’. Let these entrancing sorceresses cast you under their spell, haste ye to the spider’s web http://www.ravenheartmusicrecords.com/products.html , and imbibe in their incandescent incantations. I am drawn by an irresistible force beyond human comprehension, drawn from the depths of Hades, to bestow upon them a 9/10 (Reviewed by Phil).
KIMBERLEY DAHME..'CAN'T A GIRL CHANGE HER MIND'
(Escape Music) Reviewed 29th November 2009
Here we have an artist that I am particularly interested in. I am a big fan of the US Rock Band Boston, and Kimberley Dahme was featured on their 2002 'Corporate America' album. She even had a song she wrote featured on that very album, 'With You', and that song re appears on this solo record. 'Can't a Girl Change Her Mind' is one for fans of Country/Rock/AOR and is a very safe and inoffensive recording that I have particularly enjoyed. So sit back, chill out and enjoy the country sounding title track, the beautiful, 'Rock You Like A Baby', the Gospel sounding 'No Question', the rockier 'Love Don't Leave Me Now' or the bluesy 'It Takes Two To Fall'. Yep, this is good and I have enjoyed it....8./10 (Reviewed by Dave)
ARAPACIS..'CONSEQUENCES OF DREAMS'
(Femme Metal Records) Reviewed 29th November 2009
A rather interesting album from Canadian band Arapacis, and to be frank, I am not quite sure what to make of it. Let's just say that this will not hit you right away and is going to take a few spins to get used too. 'Consequences of Dreams' also seems to fly off in various directions, and at times it all seems a little chaotic. Also, I am not one for criticising production, as only a handful of bands have a Bon Jovi style production budget, but I do find the production a little muddy at times on this release. Anyway, we have an album that is heavy, melodic and I do like the vocals and screams of leading lady Lizzie Fyre. Best track to my ears is the ballad 'Death of Loneliness'. What I would say about this is to approach with a little caution, but having said that, I would be keen to hear anything else this band pushes out. Not too keen on the drum solo on the last track though, just drags on a bit. 6.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)
INTERRIA..'LES CORPS IMPATIENTS'
(Self Release) Reviewed 28th November 2009
Just 500 copies of this CD ‘Les Corps Impatients’ (‘Impatient Bodies’) have been self released by this electro gothic metal band from Paris France, (as Americans would say, what other Paris is there?), the intention is to satisfy their fans and attract a label. Lead by the stylish Jenni and her powerful, passionate voice with French lyrics, this is music that will appeal to fans of Lahannya and Omega Lithium. What they offer after the intro is ten slabs of gothic metal spiced up with electronica, that alternate between the more brain battering, ‘Nemorkia’, the seriously groovy, ‘Mindustrial’, and the more melodic, ‘Nouvelle Ere’. Production is top notch, recorded at the famous Loko Studio by Guillaume André. Available from their boutique http://www.interria.net/index.php?action=boutique 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Phil)
CHAPTER II FEATURING NATALIE CHANDRA..'ANGELFACE'
(Self Release) Reviewed 25th November 2009
Don’t panic, this is not a hip hop act, but a new rock band from Switzerland, Natalie Chandra is also an artiste in her own right. Founders guitarist James Ender and drummer Fred Wiederkehr met in a rock covers band called ‘Time Bandits’, and the music they produce is a big melting pot of classic rock, bits of Purple, Metallica, Queen, G&R, Lizzy, The Runaways, Lacuna, Nightwish, Paramore, Banshees, and goodness knows what else, all brought bang up to date. The songs career along like a runaway train, and are catchier than the bout of flu I’ve just had, but a damn site more fun. If this doesn’t get you dancing, then check your pulse. They also put lots of fun and interesting bits in the songs, folk singing, new age, bagpipes, guitar solos, electronica, orchestra, all sorts, which really bring a smile to your face, there’s always a surprise around the corner. There’s also plenty of variety, the hip beat of ‘Scorned’ , the strut of ‘Stupefy Myself’, and the Purplish boogie of ‘Synchronicity’ complete with a rollicking ‘Jon Lord’ organ solo. Two songs really stand out, the truly epic symphonic stomping metal of ‘Sukhmet’s Summoning’, and the jaw dropping final cut, ‘Slumber With the Bogeyman’ which I am struggling to describe, I’ll have a bash at symphonic, hip hop, rock, metal. In Natalie they have a major talent, she could sing the telephone directory and make it sound good. Her passion, power, lyrics and sheer presence leap out of the speakers, forget the X Factor, this lady has it by the bucket load. This is a truly outstanding debut, available at CD Baby (just search for Angelface), and well worthy of 9.5/10 (Reviewed by Phil)
HYDRIA..'MIRROR OF TEARS'
(Self Release) Reviewed 19th November 2009
This Brazilian band has supported the likes of Tarja and Within Temptation, and like their famous footballers, they are desperate to be signed by one of the big teams and be given their chance on the world stage. Their style is up-tempo gothic metal, like a more guitar driven, less symphonic, Within Temptation, with occasional forays into power metal territory. Brazilian beauty Rachel Shuler has a lovely pure voice, similar to Sharon Den Adel’s ‘Angels’ style. ‘Mirror of Tears’ shows their range, melodic verses, powerful soaring choruses and a gentle interlude, ‘Sober Dreams’ has an exquisite melody, headbangers will enjoy the driving ‘Break the Silence’, ‘Angels Lullaby’ starts with a gorgeous semi-acoustic passage before building into a power ballad, and the closing epic, ‘ Beautiful Storm’ allows them to really spread their wings. The standout is the premier league piano ballad, ‘Eternal’. Personally, I found the guitars are too loud, and the keys too quiet, but I’m a keyboard player. Available from CD Baby, this album shows that they are a band with the ability to become international, highly recommended for Within Temptation and gothic metal fans. 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Phil)
GATE OF SORROW..'ENTER THROUGH THE GATE'
(Open Media) Reviewed 14th November 2009
This debut album from the Czech symphonic metallers is the culmination of years of gradual evolution. They started as a death/thrash metal band called Gate back in 1997, founded by guitarist/vocalist Roman Turacek. Gradually they added a guest female opera singer and keyboards to their albums, as they became increasingly melodic. In 2005 they decided to demonstrate this by changing their name to Gate of Sorrow and recruiting a full time operatic singer, Milada Miltakova, who also looks after all the deeply emotive lyrics, and keys player Ludvik Cihanek. The final piece of the jigsaw was when guitarist Libor Miklas joined the band in 2008. A suitably mournful intro leads into eight songs packed with melodic orchestrations, soaring operatics, and deep melodic growls, with elements of thrash, Epica and Nightwish. This is so much crammed into each song, it is difficult to pick out favourites, but I was particularly taken with ‘Tears in the Ashes’ and ‘Follow Me to the Other Side’. The album ends the solemn and achingly beautiful piano ballad Sirius. The producer has created an almighty, powerful, and thunderous sound, but everything is perfectly balanced and crystal clear. The interplay between melodic growls and operatics is something that Epica has lost, but Gate of Sorrow show how it should be done, mainly by keeping the male voice deep in the mix and in the bass register, so that it does not become dominant. Easily available for only 5 Euros plus postage from their website, http://www.gateofsorrow.com/. Even anti growlers like me will find an enormous amount to enjoy in this awesome CD, full of atmosphere, drama, emotion and soaring melodies. 9/10 (Reviewed by Phil)
BLACK KNIGHT SYMFONIA..'HEAVENLY CHAOS'
(Independent Release) Reviewed 13th November 2009
It’s time to don my armour, mount my trust warhorse Bayard, and ride into the Emerald Kingdom to do battle with the Chevalier Noir and the legions of the Lord of Chaos. This is the brainchild of Michael Fiori, ‘Saga’, a multi talented neo classical guitarist and keyboard player who also supplies a variety of suitably evil voices. He is joined by two enchanting damsels, the operatic Adelaide Allard de Stave, ‘Arya’, and Anais Chevallier, ‘Nymphadora’, on powerful melodic vocals. This is for fans of Rhapsody and Fairyland, but it is far more orchestral, atmospheric and dramatic. This is true story telling music; ‘Dragonland’ has wonderfully evocative lyrics about the Black Knight’s beloved, ‘She comes preceded by a rotten smell, monstrous of her splendour. Her beauty is torture. The atrocity of her golden eyes corrupts soul and heart’. Sounds like a nice girl! The songs are split between the more power metalish ‘Dark Era’, ‘Dragonland’ and ‘Hell on Earth’, and the full blown operatics of ‘Chevalier Noir’ and ‘Voyage Initiatique’, denoted by the use of English and French. The Middle Eastern flavoured ‘Eternal Life’ and ‘Akasha’ remind me of Therion. The stand out track is ‘Emerald Kingdom’ which shows all their facets, orchestral drama, superb guitar work, and the interplay between the three very different voices. There is so much packed into each song it really does repay repeat plays. Michael is looking for label to release this wonderful epic, coming from Monaco, it must be worth a gamble, to hear more go to www.myspace.com/bksymfonia. I’m off to get the blood out of my tunic; do you think Persil will do it? 9/10. (Reviewed by Phil)
HAND..'DEADROOM JOURNAL'
(Casket/Copro) Reviewed 13th November 2009
Hand is a Prog Rock/Metal band from the south of England that were on the line up of the Femme Metal Fest on Nov 7th. I even took care of their merchandise stall for a while, and even sold some copies of this album too. 'Deadroom Journal' is a seven track affair that clocks in at almost 40 mins. Fronted by Kat Ward, and although not an all out Prog Rock fan myself, this little offering ain't bad, and I like Kat's vocals - the kinda vocals where the band could not do without her, but she could get along quite well as a solo artist without the band, if you get my meaning. 'Manuscript' kicks things off, cool musicianship throughout here, and I really admire this band. You know why? They embrace a genre that one may associate with musicians twice their age, and yet these youngsters in their early 20's play the type of music they obviously strongly believe in, and pull it off superbly well too. Fair play to them. Further highlights on this record are 'Clannad Mass', 'Birth' and 'Resonia'. This is a welcoming change to the type of music I normally listen too. Check them out at www.myspace.com/handgothicband. Great stuff guys and gal!! 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)
EXOTERIK..'BUTTERFLY IN YOUR HAND'
(Independent Release) Reviewed 12th November 2009
After recording the previous album 'Don’t Swallow' between Finland and Latvia with producer John Fryer (Him, Cocteau Twins, Depeche Mode and Cradle of Filth etc), Leeds based Exoterik have this time decided to keep to their roots and record their second album in England (Northampton). And like their debut offering, 'Butterfly In Your Hand' is an awesome slab of Gothic Rock/Metal. Fronted by Anneka Latta, this little platter kicks off with the up tempo 'Reason To Live' which is followed by 'No Happy Ending' with it's catchy little chorus. There is no resting as third track in 'Scream To Be Heard' comes screaming from the speakers after a quiet intro - just screaming to be heard. The album continues at a similar pace throughout, although things do slow down on occasion, 'Pressure' being one of the slower tracks, albeit a rather powerful song and 'Uninvited' is another slower one with interesting and somewhat personal lyrics I would imagine! The band have a winner here, the standard is high and I would imagine a great band to see live! And they are British. A great record and well worth checking out! 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)
FACTORY OF DREAMS..'A STRANGE UTOPIA'
(ProgRock Records) Reviewed 12th November 2009
Portugese outfit Factory Of Dreams previous opus 'Poles' was reviewed here back in Sept 2008 and I was highly impressed with that release. Now what about 'A Strange Utopia'? This is another good record from the busy Hugo Flores and Jessica Lehto, and although I do admit that this will not be to everyone's taste, it should appeal to the fan who enjoys his Prog Rock/Metal. Again, the songs on offer are very well structured and quite technical. I call this type of music thinking person's music - do not expect verse chorus, verse chorus as it ain't gonna happen. 'Voyage To Utopia' gets things away, immediately giving us a feel for the music on offer. 'Inner Station' has an atmospheric intro and this track ranks as one of my faves on the cd - awesome violin too. But I have a feeling that on subsequent listens, other tracks will unveil their hidden qualities to me. 'Sonic Sensations' is another good tune that highlights the quality of Jessica's voice, while the awesome 9 minute + 'E-Motions' is another highlight on this album. Okay, this release is a grower, do not expect it to hit you immediately. But like most albums that grow, they are the ones that tend to hang around the longest. This sure is worth checking out, but if you like bands like Evanescence, or you are not very open minded regards your music, then perhaps steer clear. 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)
ASYLUM PYRE..'NATURAL INSTINCT'
(Independent Release) Reviewed 12th November 2009
Mixing influences and styles from Speed Metal thro Neo Classical to Progressive, passing through Lyrical or ambient metal along the way, Asylum Pyre draws elements from multiple genres so as to create its own identity. This band's trademark is to build songs around catchy melodies and rhythm breaks, that alternate quiet parts and powerful tempos. Utlilising the voices of Carole and Johann, this is a very impressive debut release. Carole's vocals range from 'normal' to operatic, while the male vocals are by and large clean. The album offers up some spoken passages too, this is immediately apparent from the opener 'Taken Away To The Asylum'. 'Coral's Riff (Now Hell)' has a beautiful instrumental passage half way through, that sent the hairs on the back of my neck on their end. Kinda Pink Floydish - great keys and guitar! 'Don't Waste It' is one of my fave tracks clocking in at over 7 mins. A beautiful track and a great intro aswell! This release has eveything, and I must say that there is some strong stuff coming out of France at the moment. This is most certainly one of them and is well worth spending your money on. A powerful and beautiful album. Check Asylum Pyre out at www.myspace.com/asylumpyre 9/10 (Reviewed by Dave)
TORI LETZLER..'BEHIND CLOSED EYES'
(Independent Release) Reviewed 6th November 2009
Living in New York City, Tori has been singing professionally since the age of seven, started playing the piano at age five, and has been writing music for as long as she can remember. And this is a good little release we have here that has come as a pleasant surprise to Mr Ravenheart. Some good songs kicking off with 'Alive', starting with a cool piano intro before the rest of the band kick in. The title track follows a similar formula, and is another equally good track. With tracks like 'Any Other Day', the rocky 'Break You' (proving this girl rocks too) and 'Take Me', Tori is proof of a hard working musician that does what she believes in, and makes good music. This is worth checking out and it can be purchased at cdbaby.com. Also check Tori out at www.myspace.com/toriletzler. Lovely! 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)
ELYSION..'SILENT SCREAM'
(Massacre Records) Reviewed 6th November 2009
Here we have a dose of in yer face catchy melodic gothic metal, that will sure please all fans of Evanescence and Lacuna Coil to name just two. And that means it is right up my alleyway aswell. Greek Band Elysion were formed in 2006 by guitarist Johnny Zero and soon picked up the attention of Massacre Records. Fronted by Christianna, I must say I am enjoying this release, and it will be there for everybody else to enjoy from the 18th December. 'Dreamer' gets things going and yep, I can tell right away I am gonna like this. Soooo catchy! 'Killing My Dreams' (great keys and guitar solo) keeps the momentum going and I am in wonderland. Super stuff indeed. I have always liked my rock music catchy and melodic, that is possibly why I list bands like Bon Jovi, Gotthard and Danger Danger amongst many other melodic hard rock acts, as my faves! Every track on this little gem is a winner and will appeal to many with it's inoffensive style of catchy melodic gothic rock/metal. Just check out the awesome ballads, 'Weakness In Your Eyes' and 'Bleeding'- superb vocal displays from Christianna. 'Another fave track is the pounding 'Loss'. 'Silent Scream' is a MUST buy to my ears, and is one of the best albums I have heard this year within it's genre. Get it on Dec 18th!! 9.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)
CALATHEA.. 'HOTEL LONELINESS'
(Self Release) Reviewed 6th November 2009
I must admit I belong to the Steven Wilson (Porcupine Tree) anti iPod club. I like to sit down with a cup of tea, the booklet on my lap, and listen to a CD on a decent system from start to finish. I don’t even own a MP3 player, and the band had to kindly send me a CD. However for the iPod savvy, this must be the bargain of the century, this wonderful up-tempo ultra melodic gothic rock album is available for free download from their website http://www.calathea.cz/. The delectable Marketa has a superb pure, emotive, powerful voice, and the properly rhyming lyrics are excellent. It starts with the piano driven ‘Over Real Days’, ‘Don’t’ has a haunting intro before building to a powerful chorus, ‘House of Glass’ gallops along like Amy Macdonald, and ‘Morning Star’ has a delicate acoustic guitar intro before turning into a rocker. ‘Pictures’ is heavier and riffier, ‘Sad Lines of Nowhere’ combines moody verses with a chorus that rattles along nicely, ‘Sin Number 7’ is a bit punkier, ‘and ‘One Last Night’ has a charming piano intro and super catchy chorus. The last two numbers are the wonderfully named ‘Chocolate, Blood and Tears’, which is an infectious rocker, and the lovely ballad ‘Wish I Could Fly’. This is a most enjoyable listening experience, so press that download button, give yourselves a treat, and buy a T shirt to support this highly promising young band from the Czech Republic. 9/10 (Reviewed by Phil)
The DREAMSIDE..'LUNAR NATURE'
(Lion Music) Reviewed 2nd November 2009
The Dreamside has been on the Gothic Rock scene for 15 years. Blending elements of Electro, Gothic and Metal music, with female vocals and lyrics commonly centred on themes like the supernatural, The Dreamside have built a strong fan base thanks to their four previous albums, and in 2009 they signed with Lion Music for their 5th studio album 'Lunar Nature', which will be released on December 4th. The music on 'Lunar Nature' can be described as real atmospherical Gothic Rock with a good mixture of heavy guitars, electronic elements and a proper shot of alternative rock, all with a good helping of that aforementioned atmosphere. All this interwoven with Kemi Vita’s remarkable voice and her unique way to express emotions in very personal lyrics. And I must say that this band rank as another of my fave acts (the list gets longer!), I actually having all their previous releases. Some brilliant tracks on this record including 'Everlasting', the totally cool 'Silently Awake', 'Sticks and Stones' , 'Carry On', 'In Longing' , 'Sternenkind' and the rocky 'Seeds Of Pain' (a collaboration with the US act “Information Society” ). But to be frank, every track to my ears is a winner including 'Hush', when I thought for a moment that the angels had taken me away, this track even reminding me a little of Pink Floyd! This is a totally mind blowing release that will please fans of the band and indeed, fans of the Electro Gothic genre as a whole. As previously mentioned, it gets released on the 4th December. 15 tracks and 64 mins of music - great stuff and will make someone a great Christmas pressie. And a vital addition to one's cd collection. 9.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)
AGNES Pihlava..'REDEMPTION'
(Scandal Music Company) Reviewed 1st November 2009
Finnish rock sensation Agnes released the awesome 'When The Night Falls' in 2007, and I believe that this was one of the years best sellers within the melodic rock genre. Now towards the end of 2009, Agnes Pihlava delivers us her new opus 'Redemption'. And this I must say carries on exactly where the previous release left off, and is a totally awesome slab of melodic hard rock that has brightened up a typically English November day. The opening salvo of 'Own Two Feet' and 'For Your Redemption' will give you an idea the direction this album is going. And all the tracks on 'Redemption' offer up some real cool tunes with great anthemic choruses, and I love the variety here too. Check out 'Wasn't It Enough' with it's awesome chorus, that is then followed by 'Maybe I was Wrong (Our Sweet Placebo)' which offers some real heavy riffs but still with a typically catchy chorus. 'In My Dreams' is a ballad with cool lyrics, and I am sure if it picked up airplay on UK radio, it would be a smash hit. 'You Believe Her' follows 'In My Dreams' and gets proceedings rocking again with yet another totally catchy chorus. 'Ready To Fall' is another catchy rocker that makes me aware what got me into this genre in the first place. I love it! Agnes is a Melodic Hard Rock Princess that demands your attention, and what she and her band have given us here is top drawer stuff. Another top seller? - it has to be, surely! Great stuff so BUY it!! 9.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave).
INFINITY OVERTURE..'KINGDOM OF UTOPIA'
(Lion Music) Reviewed 29th October 2009
Infinity Overture are a Symphonic Power Metal band founded in Denmark in 2005 by guitarist Niels Vejlyt. To ensure the music is accessible for all rock fans, Niels set about crafting songs that are home to memorable verses and choruses, and these were then fused with more traditional epic metal arrangements and symphonic elements. The music of the band's debut 'Kingdom Of Utopia' is big and explosive in places with insane guitar solos, yet balanced by subtle melodic breaks and big harmonies. With this release, Infinity Overture are set to make a big impact in the world of symphonic power metal with the quality of material heard on this, their debut release. Indeed, this blend of melodic metal and the symphonic orchestra, was strong enough to make vocalist Ian Parry (Consortium Project, Elegy) join the band and it was his vision that provided not only all the lyrics but the story concept on which the album is based. To finalise the sound, Infinity Overture still needed another element to be completed, this final piece was found in female lead vocalist Lene Pedersen whose style is the perfect contrast to Parry's. And the result is an awesome piece of melodic metal which is basically a lyrical concept story. 'Millenia' gets proceedings underway, and yep, we are onto a winner here. 'The Great Believers' is a catchy orchestrated number. Things move along nicely on the progressive sounding 'Warrior King', and the album continues at a similar pace throughout it's 48 minutes. Basically, it's melodic and heavy and will be a symphonic power metal fan's sexy dream. It features a great bunch of musicians with other faves of mine on the record including 'Wonderland', 'Temple of Doom' and the awesome ballad 'Queen of Hearts' . 'Kingdom of Utopia' should be fairly easy to obtain from the normal rock/metal retailers, or from http://www.lionmusic.com. So do as Mr Ravenheart says and buy :) 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)
AUSPEX..'RESOLUTION'
(Thundering Records) Reviewed 26th October 2009
The French certainly love their symphonic speed metal Fairyland, Kerion, Wildpath, etc. Auspex was founded back in 2001, and this is their debut full length CD. Elodie Buchonnet has got a powerful, versatile voice, which easily rises above the music. After the intro, there are eight epics on this album, full of great singing, choirs, spoken orations, guitar and synthesizer solos, instrumental passages, and real diversity as they move from light to heavy. There is more packed into one song than most bands manage in a whole album. They are really absorbing and fascinating to listen to, something new, different, and delightful is always just around the corner. Highlights include ‘Theatre of Pain’, the lovely melody of ‘Mysteries of Stars’, ‘Celestia’, and the closing 10 minute epic ‘Rise’. Excellent production,
real variety and skilled drumming means that they avoid the overuse of tiresome double bass drum pounding that obliterates the music of some of their peers. The musicianship is outstanding, especially Frederic Hugenell’s lightning drumming, and Pierre Yves Brun’s use of synths, piano, organ and harpsichord. This is a must for fans not only of bands like Rhapsody and Fairyland, but, thanks to that diversity, to fans of symphonic metal in general. Available on their Myspace site,
www.myspace.com/auspexmusic 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Phil)
FOR SELENA AND SIN..'PRIMROSE PATH'
(Mascot Records) Reviewed 25th October 2009
The second album by this Finish gothic rock band, following the excellent Overdosed on You, released back in 2007. They have a highly successful formula of laid back verses full of atmospheric keyboards, with the guitars kicking in for the soaring choruses. It certainly suits Annika Jalkanen’s pure, emotional voice. It kicks off ith ‘Countdown to the Stars’ with a super catchy chorus, ‘Rusty Rails of yesterday’ (great title) is wonderfully anthemic, ‘Horst’ and ‘Colour My World’ are more symphonic, while ‘Broken Mirror’ and ‘Don’t Touch the Sky’ have powerful male vocals in the chorus that provides a nice contrast. Fans of Kylie Minogue and Angtoria will recognise their excellent version of ‘Confide With Me’. This is a really good album for goth and melodic rockers who like band such as Katra, Lacuna Coil, Paramore, and Delain, 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Phil)
CLANDESTINE..'THE INVALID'
(Self Release) Reviewed 25th October 2009
The debut album by this Los Angeles progressive metal band has been mixed by Sylvia Massy, famous for her production work with such luminaries as Tool, Red Hot Chilli Peppers and Belladonna. The lovely June was born in South Korea, but moved to the USA to further her musical career. The songs alternate between thunderous, technical riffage, and mellower synth passages. Silent Sin, Pretend and Phantom Pain start out more chilled before growing in power, giving the album a nice balance. The last song is outstanding, the funky, syncopated Comatose. The musicianship is superb, thankfully the noodling is limited, the powerful vocals of June given priority. The drumming by Sammy J Watson (ex Apex Theory) is sensational; the guy must need an oxygen tent at the end of a gig. This is a challenging and highly absorbing listen, perfect for fans of Dream Theatre and Tool, but with a melodic sensibility that will appeal to a wide range of metal fans. Available from www.myspace.com/clandestineband 9/10 (Reviewed by Phil)
INNOCENS..'FREE US'
( Self Release) Reviewed 23rd October 2009
This is the debut album by the Czech quintet founded by singer Katerina and bass player Jaroush. They started by doing more acoustic music but soon developed into a gothic symphonic metal band. The cover artwork will remind Doctor Who fans of Cassandra, the woman who has lived hundreds of years but is now just a face. Front lady, the vivacious Katerina, not only has a lovely pop voice, but she can also do soaring semi-operatics as well. The album starts with a quartet of catchy, highly melodic, up-tempo numbers, a cross between Within Temptation and Andrew Lloyd Webber, with Rick Wakeman on keys. The orchestrated ‘H.O.P.E’ is outstanding, and ‘Free Me’ has a delightful piano intro. For the next four songs (with a brief orchestral interlude) they shift up a gear into more Nightwish territory. ‘Voyage’ has superb synth work, and the operatic ‘Fragrance of Memories’ is very impressive. They return to a more Within Temptation vibe on ‘Life for Sale’ with excellent use of synths and electronica, then ‘Queen of My Own’ with its choral intro. The album ends with the suitably grand orchestral ballad ‘Remember’. None of the songs hang about, they do their job, and then it’s onto the next, so the album really motors along. I would like to take this opportunity to thank John Beak from their management for all his help. Available on their online shop at http://www.innocens.net/ and Myspace site www.myspace.com/innocens . I have no hesitation in recommending this to all Within Temptation and symphonic gothic metal fans, indeed anyone who likes great music, 9/10 (Reviewed by Phil)
There are stacks more reviews (from 2006 til mid/late 2009) at http://www.ravenheartarchives.com. Check em out!