Ravenheart Music: Album Reviews
REVIEWS I-K
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KELLS..'ANACHROMIE'
(Season of Mist) Reviewed 21st February 2012
Kells are French and this, their third album like their others, is sung mainly in their native tongue. This is a melodic and a somewhat heavy release, a kinda heavier Evanescence if that makes sense. Kells are not Symphonic, but there is a metallic intensity to the music within these 15 tracks. That's right, 15 tracks so you do get your moneys worth and what makes this release just that little bit more interesting, is vocalist Virginie Goncalves ability to enter scream mode at the flick of a coin, like Maria Brink of In This Moment. So we have Evanescence comparisons and In This Moment comparisons all within the space of a few lines, and I think that gives a fair indication as to the direction that Kells are moving along with this release. This is a good album and a fairly consistent one too, although upon repeated listens, favourite tracks do begin to emerge, like the track 'Emmurés' which has a rather powerful but very catchy chorus that sticks in your head. Some punters will no doubt have a good old moan because it is sung in French, but so what, this is heavy melodic music, and this is damn good. I would like to point out however, that the band have included English versions of 'Se taire' (Furytale) and 'L'heure que le temps va figer' (On My Fate). I would recommend this album to anybody that likes something just a little different, great stuff!...8.75/10 (Dave)
INKUBUS SUKKUBUS..'THE GOAT'
(Resurrection Records) Reviewed 7th February 2012
Okay, I have a kinda soft spot for UK Rockers Inkubus Sukkubus. Firstly, they are fairly local to Ravenheart Towers (just a short trip down our M5), and I always find their music very listenable and indeed somewhat catchy, and you cannot beat a good catchy tune. As always with the band, they mix Rock Music with Pagan themes, this release coming hot on the heels of their last album' 'The Dark Goddess' (which I have also just reviewed below). Candia’s voice is awesome as always, and she offers the ideal sultry sexy style for this kind of music. Title track 'The Goat' gets the album into gear, and is a good song, although lyrically I find this just a little repetetive, but who gives a damn when it is this good! 'Sweet Fallen Angel' is the album's first ballad, starting with acoustic guitars and strings before the electrics kick in - great number. After having listened to 'The Goat' a few times, I cannot get bored with it as every track of the 10 on offer is different, done in the bands own imitable style. There are some oldies here, Pagan Born for example is an acoustic version lifted from the 1994 album 'Wytches', 'Fire And Ice' was a track they played when they first started back in 1989, and 'Melancholy Blue' is an old song written by Candia's partner in crime, Tony McKormack some 25 years or so ago. Standout tracks are the ballad 'Forever', the bouncy 'Rites of Pan', the aforementioned 'Pagan Born' and another foot tapper, 'Fire and Ice'. Check the band out at their website, where the album can also be purchased. Recommended, 8.75/10 (Dave)
INKUBUS SUKKUBUS..'THE DARK GODDESS'
(Resurrection Records) Reviewed 7th February 2012
'The Dark Goddess' was released in 2010 and repressed last year and released internationally. The album is dedicated to Lilith, a Mesopotamian demon which during the Middle Ages became more known as the first wife of Adam. Erm, on that note, I thought a brief review of this would be in order, following the review of their most recent release above. This album is in keeping with the typical Inkubus Sukkubus Pagan Rockin' style, kicking off with the catchy title track 'The Dark Goddess'. The most interesting song on the album is second one in ‘Lose Yourself at the Nymphaeum’. After having done a little research myself, this song evolves around a real story about a statuesque found within the walls of a house in which Bob Gardener (the band’s bassist) worked. Like 'The Goat' reviewed above, this album is a mix of rousing Pagan rockers and awesome ballads, just listen to 'Night Angel' and 'Karnaya' as two examples of their rousing Pagan rockin' style. Melodic, catchy and worthy of an 8.75/10 (Dave)
IDEAS..'HIDE YOUR HEART'
(Hammer/Nail Records) Reviewed 31st January 2012
I thoroughly enjoyed the last release 'Phoenix', which I reviewed in April 2010, by this Hungarian band that were first founded way back in 1994, however it was only with the appointment of top singer Anita Kun in 2005 that they hit the international radar. They serve up another nine slabs of premier league mega mighty melodic symphonic metal plus a closing piano ballad that lies somewhere between Nightwish and Within Temptation, but I also now detect Edenbridge in the mix as well as some melodic metal. There is also an indefinably intangible, poetically romantic quality thanks to Anita's incredible voice, one of the finest and most distinctive in metal and rock, or or any form of music come to that, although she does remind me of a more powerful Judith Durham from The Seekers, yes, I'm showing my age. As with Phoenix it comes with 2 CD's, one in Hungarian, the other with the same songs in English. However, although I cannot understand a single word of Hungarian, it is obvious that the lyrics are not a direct translation and have been totally reworked into excellent English as they make perfect sense, fit properly and rhyme appropriately, which is very important for their anthemic choruses, “Don't you fear just hide your heart, The Night will be over soon, Don't let the world tear you apart, Upon the Earth under the Moon” ('Hide Your Heart'). This is an album of consistent sound and quality, after four catchy crackers they take it down a touch for the gorgeous mellower syncopated 'Forever'. A Moog motif signals the start of the awesome title track 'Hide your Heart' as they tear through the second half, before the gentle piano ballad 'A Cry For' ends the album on a poignant note. Like Phoenix, although they have gone to the trouble of producing an English version, it is very difficult to obtain outside Hungary. Hopefully international distribution will be arranged, it certainly deserves it as this they are a highly professional premier league band. For more ideas visit their website here, an ideal 9/10 (Phil)
IN VIRTUE..'EMBRACE THE HORROR'
(Self Release) Reviewed 11th November 2011
At the beginning of last year I reviewed the début extended EP by these Americans called 'Delusions of Grandeur', an eclectic collection that was notable for the the song 'Dreamwalker', with a chorus that got so securely lodged in my cranium I had to have it surgically removed. Now they are back with a full length of massive ambition, a concept album based on various apocalyptic scenarios and their impact on the human race, including the ice caps melting and sharks taking over the world, der-dum, der-dum, der-dum …., military superpowers destroying everything in their wake, lava spitting geysers erupting across the planet, and everybody's fave rave from the grave, ZOMBIES!!! Lock up your daughters and head for the hills!!!
The main man is again guitarist Trey Xavier, with Corinne Reif, the 'Infamous Ms. C', out front, but despite my best efforts I still haven't found out what she's infamous for, the mind boggles. After the bright and breezy French style speedy metal of the first two songs 'Suspense of Disbelief' and 'Twin Species' things take a turn for the dark side with 'Witch Hunt' as each song becomes a monster mash of metal mediums – gothic, power, speedy, traditional, folk, thrash, prog and some death featuring Trey's growls alongside Corinne's pure voice. Added to that they throw in some real curve balls, interludes with their own orchestra and choir, plus bursts of folk rock, prog rock, Latin, blues, bluegrass, horror organ, gospel, opera, etc. etc. On their Facebook they describe their influences as everything from Cannibal Corpse to The Carpenters, so baton down the hatches and expect anything and everything is the best policy. You get lashings of Trey's lightning fast neoclassical and metal guitar work, and it ends with another of his madcap instrumentals 'Afterture' where he and the orchestra play themes from the album in just about every style you can think of from jazz to metal, with Trey showing he's also a dab hand on the keyboards. The downside to the album is that it won't please all the people all the time, there are parts that I love, and parts I don't (I think death metal is a unholy row), which is the nature of the beast when you put in so many disparate elements. I also feel that they could have used keyboards, orchestra and choir more, a 'Dreamwalker' style chorus with full band, choir and orchestra would have been awesome. For these reasons I find the most successful songs to be 'Suspense of Disbelief' and the epic 'The Essence of Reason' as they have the most harmonious and impressive blend of ingredients. To paraphrase the quote from the film Armageddon in the song 'Cataclysmic Shock', guess what guys, it's time to embrace the horror, and you can have front row seats to the end of the earth if you head to their Facebook here. A highly adventurous album that will appeal to those with daring spirits, an apocalyptic 8.25/10 (Phil)
ILLUMINATA..'A WORLD SO COLD'
(Twilight Records) Reviewed 2nd November 2011
Early last year I reviewed this Austrian bands 2008 début album 'From the Chalice of Dreams' and their 2009 EP 'A Frame of Beauty' which showed a highly promising progression in their sound. They star the dual vocal attack of seductive sisters Katarzyna and Joanna Nieniewska, together with stunning Sabrina Supan on keys and backing vocals, making them a very attractive package. Joanna appeared on their début, but by the EP she had departed to join Visions of Atlantis only to leave shortly afterwards due to health problems, now she has returned to co-front the band. The dramatic orchestral intro 'Ashes of Time' and first song 'Cold Hands, Warm Hearts', show that they have made a massive leap forward from their first. This is true premier league symphonic metal that sits between Within Temptation Silent Force style gothic and modern Nightwish power, with outstanding orchestrations, fantastic sound and wonderful vocal interplay. I just adore that blend of full symphonic orchestra and warm fuzzy guitars, in one word – gorgeous! All the songs are wondrous, multifaceted and subtly different, some a touch more gothic, like 'A Frame of Beauty', others a little bit more power, such as 'Dead Warden Dreamer', making for an absorbing and varied listening experience. I was surprised by the fact that most of them easily pass the 5 minute mark, you are so swept away that the time flies. The remarkably realistic orchestrations by done by guitarist and composer Luki Knoebl in his own personal production studio really are amazing, sounding like an Oscar winning soundtrack to a Hollywood blockbuster - soaring strings, rasping brass, whistling woodwinds and massed choirs, with some of the real flute parts done by Katarzyna. The production by the band and mixing by Jan Vacik at Dreamsound Studios is one of the best you will hear, every instrument sounds incredible and crystal clear but rich and powerful, ensuring the stellar performances by Luki, Sabrina, bassist and lyricist Christoph, and drummer Tom really shine. Unbelievably most of it was recorded in a home studio, so it just shows what be achieved with hard work and talent. The vocal interplay has the rapport that only sisters can achieve, they both have powerful distinctive voices that are somewhere between rock and semi-operatic, and they are joined by Mario Plank from Visions of Atlantis on a couple of tracks, 'End My Agony' and 'Lost in Picturesque'. This is the second release this year by an Austrian band on Twilight that has totally blown me away, the other being Shadows Grey. Quite simply an hour of perfect symphonic metal heaven, for more illumination light your way to their Facebook, a brilliant 10/10 (Phil)
ISSA..'THE STORM'
(Frontiers Records) Reviewed 3rd October 2011
Issa, the beautiful Norwegian Rock Diva, is back with a blistering new album aptly titled 'The Storm'. Since her debut, Issa has created her own style and approach to Melodic Rock by mixing her peculiar and unique melodic sensibility, with a rocking attitude which is unseen in today’s Pop singers. This is certainly not metal and certainly not easy listening Pop either, but Issa’s music has everything that will appeal to the vast masses, you could say real rock with a commercial sheen. Unlike the debut self-titled album, the new album shows her taking a shot at songwriting, and together with the Martin brothers (Vega, House of Lords, Khymera, Sunstorm), she offers up some storming tracks on the new album like 'Invincible', 'We’re on Fire' and 'The Storm', the album’s title track. Contributions also come from Robert Sall (Work of Art), Randy Goodrum (Steve Lukather, Toto, Steve Perry), Daniel Palmqvist, Johannes Stole (Xorigin), Daniel Flores, Sören Kronqvist (Crash the System, Sunstorm), Chris Laney, Magnus Karlsson (Place Vendome) amongst others! And add to that, a crystal clear production from Daniel Flores, and you have a good record. This is for fans of Melodic Rock with Pop sensibilities, and although I am not quite sure whether it quite reaches the parts her debut reached, it is nonetheless highly recommended and should cause a storm when it gets released. 9/10 (Dave)
INTEMPERIA..'THE MOTHMAN PROPHECIES'
(Self Released) Reviewed 30th September 2011
Intemperia fronted by Juls Sosa hail from Venezuela, the band being conceived in 2006. The members wanting to create a Melodic Power Metal Band with Rock and Electronic Influences. An EP was released ('Aurora') and then earlier this year, the band treated the music listening public to their self released debut full length offering, 'The Mothman Prophecies'. I understand that what we have here is a concept album and from information I have been able to obtain, “tells the story of a human heart in the middle of darkness and light, trying to find it's right way and it's right place.” This album is to my ears excellent, with the opening four tracks blistering their way out of your speakers. Then the excellent power ballad 'Silent' slows things down just a little, with awesome guitar solo too, compliments Carlos “Afro” Robles. Indeed, back tracking to third number 'No Hopes', I must say that I have been familiar with that song now for a year or so, but that is another story! The second half of the album powers along quite nicely and I am beginning to notice how the vocals of Juls kinda remind me of Christianna from Greek rockers Elysion, another band that I am totally in love with. Being a sucker for the odd power ballad, means I must flag up the ninth track on the album 'I Hold On To You', an awesome piano led number with great instrumentation, while final track 'Unbreakable', also a slowie screams hit single with it's crossover appeal, this being a duet with Jose "Chego" Cabrices, a Venezuelan singer whose current band is 'UnosInfames'. This album rocks and has come as a rather pleasant surprise. Check out their reverbnation, and if you are a fan of the genre, this album is highly recommended by myself and the Ravenheart team... 9/10 (Dave)
JoanOvArc..'BENEATH THE SKY' EP
(AJR Records) Reviewed 31st August 2011
JoanovArc hail from Stevenage here in the UK. Well I knew Stevenage had a half decent soccer team that play in one of the lower leagues of English Football. But it seems that the town has a more than half decent band of musicians too, and what's more they are all girls to please fans of the genre. Now after that little chit chat, what about the music on this five track offering? Totally mind blowing, and it is no wonder that this band has been recently gigging on the European mainland. All the tracks are of a high calibre alternative rock style, with catchy melodies galore. 'Running Away' kinda reminds me of Kelly Clarkson, while 'Sisters' is one of those numbers that gets trapped in your head and won't go away. This is a pretty damn good effort, and I would like to hear more from this band. Check them out at their reverbnation.8.75/10 (Dave)
KITTIE..'I'VE FAILED YOU'
(Massacre Records) Reviewed 19th August 2011
Kittie is a Canadian heavy metal band formed in London, Ontario in 1996. A quartet of women, the group rose to success in 1999 when the track 'Brackish' from their debut album 'Spit' became a hit single. The band has toured with famous acts in the past, including Slipknot during the early 2000s on their UK tour. While their earlier works have been primarily in an alternative and nu-metal style, their sound has evolved over the last decade into a curious amalgam of alternative, thrash and groove metal, offering a brutal barrage of music, with the harsh lead vocals of Morgan Lander, reminding me of black metal. There are eleven tracks here that follow the above musical style very nicely, although they do offer up an equal dose of melody and brutality. Indeed, we do find clean vocals at times, listen to 'What Have I Done', 'Never Come Home' and 'Time Never Heals' as examples, and there is some accoustic stuff too on the instrumental 'Empires (Part I)', before 'Empires (Part II) then blows your speakers apart. Despite the band having been around for 12 years, this is actually my first real foray into Kittie territory. This offering is not bad and is definitely one for you metalheads out there....8.5/10 (Dave)
IONA..'ANOTHER REALM'
(Open Sky Records) Reviewed 20th July 2011
British band Iona were formed in the late 80's and went on the produce six increasingly successful albums. After a five year hiatus they are making up for lost time with this brand new double album, making it the perfect opportunity to discover their music. The Island of Iona, off the west coast of Scotland, is one of the holiest sites in Europe. After the monastery was founded in AD 563 by St. Cuthbert it went on to become the resting place of around 60 Scottish and Viking kings including Macbeth (1040-1057) who in reality was a rather good king in contrast to Shakespeare’s villain. The band took their name from their début album which told the story of Iona, and I cannot think of a more fitting name for this band, suiting perfectly their Christian beliefs and Celtic infused music. For those of you new to the band it becomes quickly apparent that the likes of Mostly Autumn and Karnataka owe a lot to Iona, who in turn are influenced by bands like Clannad, Camel, Yes, Horslips and Mike Oldfield, resulting in beautiful melodic rock with strong folk, prog and symphonic leanings. The folk element and signature sound comes from new Uillean pipes player Martin Nolan who replaced Troy Donockley, a name that will be very familiar to Mostly Autumn and Nightwish fans. Uillean pipes are perhaps the closest instrument to a lead guitar in sound, at times it is difficult to tell them apart especially when playing in unison, although they do have a distinctive trill and timbre. Many tracks allow the band to stretch their legs as glide from atmospheric ethereal to more powerful livelier passages, featuring Dave Bainbridge's smooth soaring guitar work that reminds me of Andy Latimer, Joanne Hogg's lush keyboard sounds and the leads and reels of Martin. A lot of drummers today have reduced their tom toms to just one mounted or they are just there for show but drummer Frank Van Essen uses his vast array extensively, as well as providing plaintive violin like on the sublime instrumental 'Ruach'. Not surprisingly there is an almost gospel hymn like quality to the refrains, this is music to bring peace to a troubled world and a tormented soul, soothed by Joanne's velvet voice. Although certainly not soporific, it's not music that you can jig around the house to, more for quiet contemplation, relaxation and reflection. Personal highlights include the title track 'Another Realm', the favourable 'Clouds', 'Let The Waters Flow' with its catchy tune and the truly epic 'White Horse'. This is just an observation and not a criticism but 95 minutes is a heck of a long time to sit listening to any album, by the end you will so chilled out you will be horizontal, so it is perhaps better looked at as two albums to be played at different times. A sublime album that will appeal to prog, folk and melodic rock aficionados, their island lies just off Mull at this location, an otherworldly 8.75/10 (Phil)
JULIAN'S LULLABY..'DREAMING OF YOUR FEARS'
(STF Records) Reviewed 12th May 2011
Julian's Lullaby from Greece were formed in 2004 and released a 26 minute demo in 2008 called 'I Can Hear You Thinking', with some of the songs being been re-recorded for this début album. Their brand of light romantic gothic symphonic rock/metal is very difficult to categorise, the closest I can get to their “blend of power, melody and dark romance” is Russian's Sea of Despair who I described as being “Romantic Heavy Rock”, but with extra classical violin and acoustic rock, as if Rickie Blackmore took elements of Mother Earth period Within Temptation, Mostly Autumn and Rainbow to create a band called Mostly Within Rainbow's Night. Equally unusual is the twin semi operatic vocal attack of lovely ladies Margina and Aprilia who take it in turns to sing the lead or harmonise or provide a counter melody. The music may be unique but it is so easy to listen to, familiar but novel. There are a nice blend of good tunes, from the more melancholy and stormy like 'Ocean of Tears', to the more up-tempo such as the rocking 'Sand on you Hands' to the more upbeat like the catchy 'Kiss Me Not (Tonight)'. Other highlights include the superb 'Just For That Day' featuring loads of splendid violin by Triantafyllos Vavatsikos and the gentler semi-acoustic 'Would It Be'. Savvas Betinis contributes the odd low growl but nothing for anti growlers to worry about, and the Greeks and Russians do it better than anyone, unlike the Dutch who always sound as if they are being garrotted. I'm not convinced the girls are always totally in tune, but I have sensitive ears as a result of spending years tuning Moogs and guitars, and they seem to grow in confidence as the album progresses. Production is simple but effective and suits the music, allowing you you to hear every instrument clearly including Charis Kambitsis rattling around his toms with great aplomb. To paraphrase their own words, no angels, demons or dark desire can keep you apart from this dream of an album so gently rock yourself to their website, a fearless 8.5/10 (Phil)
KRYPTERIA..'ALL BEAUTY MUST DIE'
(Liberatio Music) Reviewed 27th April 2011
This German band's origins go back to 2001 and a musical theatre project called Krypteria, then in 2004 stunning Korean singer Jo-In Cho was invited to sing on the charity single 'Liberatio' for the Indian tsunami and they became a fully fledged band, this being their 4th album in this incarnation. With their ancestry they have a more commercial ear that most metal bands and have never been afraid of the tag 'pop-metal', and why should they be, there's nothing wrong with trying to appeal to as many people as possible. Their sound lies somewhere between Lacuna Coil at their most catchy, Nightwish at their most groovy and HB at their most anthemic, with massed choirs helping Jo-Lin to belt out immense, colossal, humongous choruses that have a touch of musical theatre about them, just listen to the thumping refrain of 'Fly Away With Me'. This is like the soundtrack to the next James Bond film, dramatic, theatrical and with song titles like 'You Killed Me', 'Live to Fight Another Day' and 'Turn The World Around', I half expected Daniel Craig to suddenly crash through the window. They belt through ten thrillers ranging from the more emotive alt-metal 'As I Slowly Bleed' to the almost sword waving power metal polka 'Thanks For Nothing' at the other end of the spectrum, and the Queen of Metal Doro Petch makes a guest appearance on the symphonic stomper 'Victoria'. Then you get the classic lighter waving ballad 'Hurt So Bad' and finally the pièce de résistance, the creepy eleven minute 'Eye Collector', which throws anything and everything including Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata into the pot. Jo-Lin deliciously sings “Hello, lovely, follow me, Step into my parlour please, Take a slice, I must insist, Come inside now, don't resist”, well, how can I turn down such an invitation? Jo-Lin is also a talented classical pianist and this is the first album where time all the band members get a turn at the mike. The three bonus tracks are well worth the extra admission, they include two new versions of songs dating back to their musical theatre days, the totally awesome 'Get The Hell Out of My Way' and a piano version of 'Liberatio', plus 'Come Hell or High Water' which is set to the tune of Elgar's 'Land of Hope and Glory' made famous by the British annual classical music concert The Last Night of the Proms, I was waving my Union Jack and blowing my party poppers with gusto. Krypteria have really ramped everything up on this one and you will be dying to get you hands on this beauty, their website is here, a theatrical 9/10 (Phil)
INTROITUS..'ELEMENTS'
(Progress Production) Reviewed 20th April 2011
The gynaecologist’s favourite melodic prog band are back with a their second album. Please don't do an image search to see what the band look like, the results could be very embarrassing, or even potentially disastrous for gentlemen if your partner walks in a catches you. Their first album 'Fantasy' was a labour of love for Swedes Mats and Anna Bender and their friends and family for over ten years, this second album has taken just four. The powerful funky groovy opener 'The Hand That Feeds You' shows that they have brought their sound bang up to date, adding some Reasoning and Ayreon into the Bender's blend of Pink Floyd, Camel, Marillion and Pendragon. It has all the tradition of prog past but it could only have been made today. It's packed with Anna's soulful voice, Matt's incredible keyboards and synths, and outstanding contributions from all the band. The production and sound is top notch, proof a home produced album can sound like it was recorded in an expensive professional studio and not on a cheap mobile phone. Between the four main songs and the instrumental 'Restless' are four brief atmospheric interludes based on the four elements which gives the album its title. There is tremendous continuity in each song, they are all very long, averaging about 12 minutes, but sound short because they are never dragged out, there is no aimless noodling, and they are all of a piece, not like a load of different bits stuck together. 'Hand That Feeds You' and 'Dreamscape' move effortlessly between light/powerful, vocal/instrumental passages. 'Soulprint' builds and builds as is grows from soft classical to a strut powered along by son Mattias's skilful drumming and daughter Johanna's percussion, it quietens and then builds again into the rousing refrain, I love it when a band has the ability to cruise along like a finely tuned Ferrari. 'Like Always' is a classic ballad, a big name like Celine Dion would have a massive hit with an edited version. This has everything you want in a melodic prog record, great songs, tunes, musicianship and sounds with the right balance of light/heavy, simple/complex and all the traditional values of classic prog but slap bang up to date. To save you getting into trouble, their consulting rooms are here, a terrific 8.75/10 (Phil)
ILUMINATO..'REFLECTIONS OF HUMANITY'
(Self Release) Reviewed 6th March 2011
You either like Cradle of Filth or loathe them. Anyway, what has Cradle of Filth got to do with Iluminato? I so happen to like Cradle of Filth (so what I hear you cry), and listening to Brazilian based Metal Band Iluminato, Cradle of Filth is one such band that springs to mind, when I hear the gut wrenching male vocals on this release. But we also have the totally awesome and operatic vocals of leading lady Liz Demier. Liz hails from France, and that country sure seems to be a hot bed of metal at this moment in time. This record, (the band's first album) 'Reflections of Humanity', features 10 tracks that are going to pull out the issues and disturbances of humanity, seeking a direction that transcends our times, without rules and censure. The songs bring lyrics that speak in a subjective tone and an emotional and dreamlike air of themes, covering the human as a spiritual being that is questioning himself in the midst of chaos of modern society. Featuring both male and female vocals that play a prominent role within the stories that unfold within each track, this album is an interesting release. And although a kinda concept album, the songs are not really the sequel of any story. For you movie buffs, Howard Beale is also featured on the album...he being a fictional character (played by Peter Finch) from the movie 'Network' (1976). In the movie, Beale, the anchorman for the UBS Evening News, on the UBS television network, struggles to accept the ramifications of the social ailments and depravity existing in the world he reports on. Anyway, some corking Symphonic Gothic Metal tracks on offer here in the mold of Cradle of Filth, Tristania (of old) and Epica amongst others. If those aforementioned bands wet your appetite, then please do check Iluminato out at their myspace. Or better still, for a limited time only, the album can be downloaded here.. free album download 8.5/10 (Dave)
IMPERIA..'SECRET PASSION'
(Massacre Records) Reviewed 21st February 2011
This is Finnish/Norwegian Gothic Metal Quartet Imperia's 3rd album, their last 'Queen of Light' being released nearly 4 years ago. Fronted by the awesome Norwegian lass Helena Iren Michaelsen, who sings in a variety of styles from deep emotional feelings to extreme operatic expressions, the music itself is full of vivacity, it is heavy, bombastic and orchestral, but it also contains elements of pure metal. The record consists of 12 songs and it was recorded in different studios in Germany, Belgium, Finland and Norway, the mix being done by Jacob Hansen in Denmark. The opening salvo of 'Touch Your Hand' and 'Secret Passion' fire out of the speakers like a turbo charged Rhino, with Helena on top form, and the band firing on all four cylinders aswell and excellent orchestration to boot. Of course this may be nothing new, but if it ain't broken, why fix it? 'Fragile' slows things down a bit with a Middle Eastern feel at times, while 'Out of Sight' is so catchy that it screams "play me on the radio". 'Let Down' is a slow but totally dynamic ballad featuring Tina Guo on cello. 'Violence' and the catchy 'Like Rain' (awesome chorus) are further Gothic Epic Metal tunes that blast out of your speakers and make you sit up and take notice. 'Suicide' is a heavy but quirky tune that has a brief bagpipe intro with Helena sounding a little like Kate Bush on acid at times:) 'Hold On' is another cool power ballad, with 'Greed' taking it up a notch or two with great choral interlude. 'Missing It All' and the piano led ballad 'My Sleeping Angel' (a duet with Oliver Philipps from Everon), end this album and to be honest, the quality does not slacken at all throughout the 60 minutes. A totally dynamic release. The digi-pak version by the way which is the one I am reviewing having 13 tracks, the bonus cut being the electro sounding and very danceable 'Mistress'. This album offers huge crossover potential in both the goth and metal scene and to be honest, and to my ears anyway easily betters their last release. I have to say that for fans of the genre, there is no way this record will disappoint. It gets released 25th March so put it on your shopping list..9.5/10(Dave)
K REPUBLIC..'ALL THOSE THINGS I LEFT BEHIND'
(Studio Novi Records) Reviewed 17th February 2011
This the product of a unique musical union between Russia and America. Kukryniksy are a platinum selling Russian gothic rock band, and when lead singer Alex Gorshenev met lovely American country singer songwriter Stephanie Starr the idea for K Republic was born. It is also a union between Alex's deep gothic tones and Steph's pop country twang, the result is a cross between The Mission, The Damned, The Walker Brothers, Love and Shania Twain, a sort of gothic country rock pop is the closest I can get. It is roughly divided into deeper gothic songs 'Last Resort', 'Nobody (Life and Death)', and 'Hometown'; ridiculously catchy numbers 'Speed', 'Clear Days', 'Tell Me' and 'SOS'; and awesome mellow strummers 'My Highway' and 'Vertical'. Before you ask, track 9 really is THAT 'Annie's Song', but before you throw yourself into the sleepy blue ocean, it's not as bad as you might think, so all together now, 'You fill up my senses, like a night in a forest....'. The production is also an unusual mix, very 21st century but with a subtle 60's psychedelic vibe, you think to yourself that song sounds like a classic from way back, but hang on, they didn't have guitar processors, synthesizers and digital sound quality 40 odd years ago (monophonic Moogs the size of elephants, 4 track tape and wah/fuzz peddles were the height of technology in those days). This is the sort of album that will leave some people scratching their heads wondering what on earth is going on, whilst others, like me, will delight in it's eccentric uniqueness and superb songwriting that will leave you grinning like a Cheshire cat. It's available to download for free from their website so you can make up your own minds. I personally love it like the mountains in springtime, a senses filling 8.75/10 (Phil)
INDIGO DARKPSYCH..'THESE ARE THE ROOTS'
(Self Release) Reviewed 31st January 2011
Indigo DarkPsych is fronted by Marvic (Maria Victoria)'Indigo' Lewis. She was born in 1980 in Malta and started her singing career at the age of eight. Originally known as Indigo, in November 2003 Marvic released her first single 'Washed Away' on radio, and in July 2004 released 'Struck'. They both turned out to be great hits, and in fact she was nominated as a best solo artist in the Bay Music Awards 2004. This inspired her as Indigo to continue writing and developing that same style, until she concluded a whole album under the name of 'STRUCK'. That album being an awesome slab of Alternative Hard Rock with subtle touches of Electronica, and stacks of melody. Now her second release 'These Are The Roots' has hit the airwaves, and a heavier perhaps more metallic sound it is too, maintaining however the melodic sensibility that was so apparent in her debut release. Marvic co wrote and co produced this record aswell, and was even responsible for the album artwork, so this lass is not just a pretty face. Anyway, the records kicks off with 'Delve' and Marvic lays her cards on the table with this track. I am sure this is the kinda music the Americans for example would love to get their hands on, Alternative Hard Rock with crunching guitars coupled with an Industrial sound. 'Thru The Darkpsych' continues in a similar vein, with shades of Electronica shining through on the catchy 'Burn Alive'. In-fact the remainder of the cd keeps up a high standard, 'Black Sheep Die' for example starts accoustically before the chorus cuts in and hits you like a Mike Tyson body blow, while 'No Other Reason' shows progressive tendencies. 'Rip It Down' has the accompanying video at Female Voices Blog, and I like the downtuned guitars on the up tempo 'Not The End' - heavy! To summarise, the album as a whole is uplifting and certainly energetic, so check the lass out at Indigo Darkpsych Myspace Site. This record is impressive...8.5/10 (Dave)
KONTRUST..'TIME TO TANGO'
(Artist Station/EMI) Reviewed 5th January 2011
Kontrust are a nutty alt-metal band from Austria, fronted by the beautiful Agata and her sidekick Stefan. Stefan's vocal style is a curious mix of rap, toasting, growling and singing, a sort of cross between Andrea Ferra and Shaggy, whilst Agata has a superb Cristina Scabbia/Annie Lennox type voice. They throw in anything and everything from Latin to world to tribal to swing rhythms, the result being a bonkers Lacuna Coil or alt-metal's answer to the Diablo Swing Orchestra. This is summed up by the video for the barmy 'Bomba', a Sound of Music/Heidi spoof with the band in stereotypical Tyrolean fancy dress and sporting silly moustaches (apart from Agata of course, that really would be silly) that's incredibly had over one and a half million views, showing that they have also crossed over into the mainstream (on Female Voices blog). However, beneath the zany exterior beats the heart of a bona fide top class metal band, this is no novelty act, this bunch can groove like a rampant beast on ecstasy. The name by the way translates as the Dutch for bum rest, urmm yes, I'm baffled too. The album is packed with 13 ridiculously catchy tunes (plus 3 interludes) with massive choruses, humongous hooks and loads of clever bits and pieces. Faves come thick and fast, amongst them 'Dancer in the Sun' with it's touch of samba, the swinging 'Play With Fire', the smashing 'The Smash Song' (also on blog), the infectious 'Clown Parade' with it's hint of La Bamba, the new single 'Zero' and the angry eastern inflected 'Face and Filter' with a BOOM BOOM that nearly shattered my windows. The lovely atmospheric emotional 'Sin' shows they can do serious as well. The production not surprisingly for a major label release is premier league, but I have one very serious complaint, there's no tango! Not only is this a sure fire winner for alt-metal fans but you can also take it to your next rave up. Should be widely available, so dear friends it's time to tango to their website http://www.kontrust.info/, a smashing 8.75/10 (Phil)
KATANGA..'MOONCHILD'
(Massacre Records) Reviewed 23rd December 2010
This is the new album by East German Gothic Band Katanga, fronted by Mario (Clean Male Vox) and Doreen (Female Vox). KATANGA was founded in 1998 and in addition to a couple of EPs, has one full length album under their belt prior to this one - 'Darkchild' released in 2006 on the Rabazco label. The band has now released a little epic here, 18 tracks running at over 73 mins, so you sure get your monies worth, being sung in both German and English. The brief instrumental 'Marquis De Sade' kicks this platter off, and the Marquis himself had the desire to inflict pain for pleasure, especially sexual pleasure. And this I must say is reflected in the opener, and to an extent second track 'Gottlos'. 'Moerder Der Erinnerung' is an awesome gothic thumper, that hammers along at a decent pace, with much of the album falling into this pounding foot tapping Atmospheric Gothic Metal category. The title track features Gothic choral arrangements and synths before the guitars kick in. A catchy chorus on offer here, with Mario's vocals tending to dominate over those of Doreen, which is the case throughout most of the album. 'Lemuria' offers the first real solo tase albeit brief of Doreen's vocals, while one of the best tracks to my ears is 'I'm Gonna Die For You'. An absolute belter of a ballad, radio friendly with ultra cool lyrics, synths and guitar solo, a sure fire hit if ever I heard one! 'Schwarze Fluegel' enters heavy metal territory proving that this band can rock, but still with the trademark catchy chorus! This is proving a very interesting release indeed, from a band I must admit to not being very familiar with prior to this record. The closing three tracks, the pounding 'Batfight', the awesome 'From Dusk Til Dawn' and the splendid 'Death of the Fun Generation' (another fave), are reworkings I believe of tracks from the band's debut album. Massacre Records has released a good un here, and it will appear in the stores at the end of January. Well worth checking out and worthy of a 9/10 (Reviewed by Dave)
INFINITY OVERTURE..'THE INFINITE OVERTURE PT. 1'
(Lion Music) Reviewed 15th December 2010
Danish progressive metallers Infinity Overture return with their second album. Led by the superb guitar and compositional skills of Neils Vejlyt, the band has taken a step away from the symphonic metal slant of their debut, to mark the start of an altogether darker and more distinctive journey, with enhanced progressive elements blended with gothic textures. As a result of the slight change of musical direction, Vejlyt has seen fit to change the band line-up - new female vocalist, Kimmie Tenna Nielsen (reminding me of Floor Jansen at times) is now at the helm, this being the most major change. Her moving and powerful voice driving on the new compositions, coupled occasionally by subtle male growls. There are also a number of guest backing vocalists on this release, including Amanda Somerville (Epica, Kamelot etc). What becomes apparent from the opener 'The Hunger' is Neils Vejlyt superb guitar work, brilliant! 'The Stand' is more progressive and once again features that awesome guitar by Neils. In-fact the guitar work is one of the highlights of this album - this guy can play. 'Angels' is a splendid ballad, a straight forward number that would appeal to the masses, while the progressive metal of 'Evernight' and 'Secrets' ups the tempo a touch, with these tracks showcasing Kimmie's rather awesome vocal style, and the all round musical talent of those involved! 'Back from the Past' is another simple but rather catchy ballad, featuring male vocals from Thomas Jensen, while 'Smoke and Mirrors' returns to the progressive and intricate style of some of the earlier tracks. The title track true to it's name, is a progressive metal epic while closer, 'Darkness of Mind' is a rather cool piano led ballad. Sascha Paeth (Edguy, Rhapsody of Fire, Kamelot) once again oversaw the mix, with the outcome being another full and rich sounding release. I would class this as thinking person's music, but having said that, this record certainly has great overall potential, hitting the streets on 21st January - 8.75/10 (Reviewed by Dave)
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KELLS..'ANACHROMIE'
(Season of Mist) Reviewed 21st February 2012
Kells are French and this, their third album like their others, is sung mainly in their native tongue. This is a melodic and a somewhat heavy release, a kinda heavier Evanescence if that makes sense. Kells are not Symphonic, but there is a metallic intensity to the music within these 15 tracks. That's right, 15 tracks so you do get your moneys worth and what makes this release just that little bit more interesting, is vocalist Virginie Goncalves ability to enter scream mode at the flick of a coin, like Maria Brink of In This Moment. So we have Evanescence comparisons and In This Moment comparisons all within the space of a few lines, and I think that gives a fair indication as to the direction that Kells are moving along with this release. This is a good album and a fairly consistent one too, although upon repeated listens, favourite tracks do begin to emerge, like the track 'Emmurés' which has a rather powerful but very catchy chorus that sticks in your head. Some punters will no doubt have a good old moan because it is sung in French, but so what, this is heavy melodic music, and this is damn good. I would like to point out however, that the band have included English versions of 'Se taire' (Furytale) and 'L'heure que le temps va figer' (On My Fate). I would recommend this album to anybody that likes something just a little different, great stuff!...8.75/10 (Dave)
INKUBUS SUKKUBUS..'THE GOAT'
(Resurrection Records) Reviewed 7th February 2012
Okay, I have a kinda soft spot for UK Rockers Inkubus Sukkubus. Firstly, they are fairly local to Ravenheart Towers (just a short trip down our M5), and I always find their music very listenable and indeed somewhat catchy, and you cannot beat a good catchy tune. As always with the band, they mix Rock Music with Pagan themes, this release coming hot on the heels of their last album' 'The Dark Goddess' (which I have also just reviewed below). Candia’s voice is awesome as always, and she offers the ideal sultry sexy style for this kind of music. Title track 'The Goat' gets the album into gear, and is a good song, although lyrically I find this just a little repetetive, but who gives a damn when it is this good! 'Sweet Fallen Angel' is the album's first ballad, starting with acoustic guitars and strings before the electrics kick in - great number. After having listened to 'The Goat' a few times, I cannot get bored with it as every track of the 10 on offer is different, done in the bands own imitable style. There are some oldies here, Pagan Born for example is an acoustic version lifted from the 1994 album 'Wytches', 'Fire And Ice' was a track they played when they first started back in 1989, and 'Melancholy Blue' is an old song written by Candia's partner in crime, Tony McKormack some 25 years or so ago. Standout tracks are the ballad 'Forever', the bouncy 'Rites of Pan', the aforementioned 'Pagan Born' and another foot tapper, 'Fire and Ice'. Check the band out at their website, where the album can also be purchased. Recommended, 8.75/10 (Dave)
INKUBUS SUKKUBUS..'THE DARK GODDESS'
(Resurrection Records) Reviewed 7th February 2012
'The Dark Goddess' was released in 2010 and repressed last year and released internationally. The album is dedicated to Lilith, a Mesopotamian demon which during the Middle Ages became more known as the first wife of Adam. Erm, on that note, I thought a brief review of this would be in order, following the review of their most recent release above. This album is in keeping with the typical Inkubus Sukkubus Pagan Rockin' style, kicking off with the catchy title track 'The Dark Goddess'. The most interesting song on the album is second one in ‘Lose Yourself at the Nymphaeum’. After having done a little research myself, this song evolves around a real story about a statuesque found within the walls of a house in which Bob Gardener (the band’s bassist) worked. Like 'The Goat' reviewed above, this album is a mix of rousing Pagan rockers and awesome ballads, just listen to 'Night Angel' and 'Karnaya' as two examples of their rousing Pagan rockin' style. Melodic, catchy and worthy of an 8.75/10 (Dave)
IDEAS..'HIDE YOUR HEART'
(Hammer/Nail Records) Reviewed 31st January 2012
I thoroughly enjoyed the last release 'Phoenix', which I reviewed in April 2010, by this Hungarian band that were first founded way back in 1994, however it was only with the appointment of top singer Anita Kun in 2005 that they hit the international radar. They serve up another nine slabs of premier league mega mighty melodic symphonic metal plus a closing piano ballad that lies somewhere between Nightwish and Within Temptation, but I also now detect Edenbridge in the mix as well as some melodic metal. There is also an indefinably intangible, poetically romantic quality thanks to Anita's incredible voice, one of the finest and most distinctive in metal and rock, or or any form of music come to that, although she does remind me of a more powerful Judith Durham from The Seekers, yes, I'm showing my age. As with Phoenix it comes with 2 CD's, one in Hungarian, the other with the same songs in English. However, although I cannot understand a single word of Hungarian, it is obvious that the lyrics are not a direct translation and have been totally reworked into excellent English as they make perfect sense, fit properly and rhyme appropriately, which is very important for their anthemic choruses, “Don't you fear just hide your heart, The Night will be over soon, Don't let the world tear you apart, Upon the Earth under the Moon” ('Hide Your Heart'). This is an album of consistent sound and quality, after four catchy crackers they take it down a touch for the gorgeous mellower syncopated 'Forever'. A Moog motif signals the start of the awesome title track 'Hide your Heart' as they tear through the second half, before the gentle piano ballad 'A Cry For' ends the album on a poignant note. Like Phoenix, although they have gone to the trouble of producing an English version, it is very difficult to obtain outside Hungary. Hopefully international distribution will be arranged, it certainly deserves it as this they are a highly professional premier league band. For more ideas visit their website here, an ideal 9/10 (Phil)
IN VIRTUE..'EMBRACE THE HORROR'
(Self Release) Reviewed 11th November 2011
At the beginning of last year I reviewed the début extended EP by these Americans called 'Delusions of Grandeur', an eclectic collection that was notable for the the song 'Dreamwalker', with a chorus that got so securely lodged in my cranium I had to have it surgically removed. Now they are back with a full length of massive ambition, a concept album based on various apocalyptic scenarios and their impact on the human race, including the ice caps melting and sharks taking over the world, der-dum, der-dum, der-dum …., military superpowers destroying everything in their wake, lava spitting geysers erupting across the planet, and everybody's fave rave from the grave, ZOMBIES!!! Lock up your daughters and head for the hills!!!
The main man is again guitarist Trey Xavier, with Corinne Reif, the 'Infamous Ms. C', out front, but despite my best efforts I still haven't found out what she's infamous for, the mind boggles. After the bright and breezy French style speedy metal of the first two songs 'Suspense of Disbelief' and 'Twin Species' things take a turn for the dark side with 'Witch Hunt' as each song becomes a monster mash of metal mediums – gothic, power, speedy, traditional, folk, thrash, prog and some death featuring Trey's growls alongside Corinne's pure voice. Added to that they throw in some real curve balls, interludes with their own orchestra and choir, plus bursts of folk rock, prog rock, Latin, blues, bluegrass, horror organ, gospel, opera, etc. etc. On their Facebook they describe their influences as everything from Cannibal Corpse to The Carpenters, so baton down the hatches and expect anything and everything is the best policy. You get lashings of Trey's lightning fast neoclassical and metal guitar work, and it ends with another of his madcap instrumentals 'Afterture' where he and the orchestra play themes from the album in just about every style you can think of from jazz to metal, with Trey showing he's also a dab hand on the keyboards. The downside to the album is that it won't please all the people all the time, there are parts that I love, and parts I don't (I think death metal is a unholy row), which is the nature of the beast when you put in so many disparate elements. I also feel that they could have used keyboards, orchestra and choir more, a 'Dreamwalker' style chorus with full band, choir and orchestra would have been awesome. For these reasons I find the most successful songs to be 'Suspense of Disbelief' and the epic 'The Essence of Reason' as they have the most harmonious and impressive blend of ingredients. To paraphrase the quote from the film Armageddon in the song 'Cataclysmic Shock', guess what guys, it's time to embrace the horror, and you can have front row seats to the end of the earth if you head to their Facebook here. A highly adventurous album that will appeal to those with daring spirits, an apocalyptic 8.25/10 (Phil)
ILLUMINATA..'A WORLD SO COLD'
(Twilight Records) Reviewed 2nd November 2011
Early last year I reviewed this Austrian bands 2008 début album 'From the Chalice of Dreams' and their 2009 EP 'A Frame of Beauty' which showed a highly promising progression in their sound. They star the dual vocal attack of seductive sisters Katarzyna and Joanna Nieniewska, together with stunning Sabrina Supan on keys and backing vocals, making them a very attractive package. Joanna appeared on their début, but by the EP she had departed to join Visions of Atlantis only to leave shortly afterwards due to health problems, now she has returned to co-front the band. The dramatic orchestral intro 'Ashes of Time' and first song 'Cold Hands, Warm Hearts', show that they have made a massive leap forward from their first. This is true premier league symphonic metal that sits between Within Temptation Silent Force style gothic and modern Nightwish power, with outstanding orchestrations, fantastic sound and wonderful vocal interplay. I just adore that blend of full symphonic orchestra and warm fuzzy guitars, in one word – gorgeous! All the songs are wondrous, multifaceted and subtly different, some a touch more gothic, like 'A Frame of Beauty', others a little bit more power, such as 'Dead Warden Dreamer', making for an absorbing and varied listening experience. I was surprised by the fact that most of them easily pass the 5 minute mark, you are so swept away that the time flies. The remarkably realistic orchestrations by done by guitarist and composer Luki Knoebl in his own personal production studio really are amazing, sounding like an Oscar winning soundtrack to a Hollywood blockbuster - soaring strings, rasping brass, whistling woodwinds and massed choirs, with some of the real flute parts done by Katarzyna. The production by the band and mixing by Jan Vacik at Dreamsound Studios is one of the best you will hear, every instrument sounds incredible and crystal clear but rich and powerful, ensuring the stellar performances by Luki, Sabrina, bassist and lyricist Christoph, and drummer Tom really shine. Unbelievably most of it was recorded in a home studio, so it just shows what be achieved with hard work and talent. The vocal interplay has the rapport that only sisters can achieve, they both have powerful distinctive voices that are somewhere between rock and semi-operatic, and they are joined by Mario Plank from Visions of Atlantis on a couple of tracks, 'End My Agony' and 'Lost in Picturesque'. This is the second release this year by an Austrian band on Twilight that has totally blown me away, the other being Shadows Grey. Quite simply an hour of perfect symphonic metal heaven, for more illumination light your way to their Facebook, a brilliant 10/10 (Phil)
ISSA..'THE STORM'
(Frontiers Records) Reviewed 3rd October 2011
Issa, the beautiful Norwegian Rock Diva, is back with a blistering new album aptly titled 'The Storm'. Since her debut, Issa has created her own style and approach to Melodic Rock by mixing her peculiar and unique melodic sensibility, with a rocking attitude which is unseen in today’s Pop singers. This is certainly not metal and certainly not easy listening Pop either, but Issa’s music has everything that will appeal to the vast masses, you could say real rock with a commercial sheen. Unlike the debut self-titled album, the new album shows her taking a shot at songwriting, and together with the Martin brothers (Vega, House of Lords, Khymera, Sunstorm), she offers up some storming tracks on the new album like 'Invincible', 'We’re on Fire' and 'The Storm', the album’s title track. Contributions also come from Robert Sall (Work of Art), Randy Goodrum (Steve Lukather, Toto, Steve Perry), Daniel Palmqvist, Johannes Stole (Xorigin), Daniel Flores, Sören Kronqvist (Crash the System, Sunstorm), Chris Laney, Magnus Karlsson (Place Vendome) amongst others! And add to that, a crystal clear production from Daniel Flores, and you have a good record. This is for fans of Melodic Rock with Pop sensibilities, and although I am not quite sure whether it quite reaches the parts her debut reached, it is nonetheless highly recommended and should cause a storm when it gets released. 9/10 (Dave)
INTEMPERIA..'THE MOTHMAN PROPHECIES'
(Self Released) Reviewed 30th September 2011
Intemperia fronted by Juls Sosa hail from Venezuela, the band being conceived in 2006. The members wanting to create a Melodic Power Metal Band with Rock and Electronic Influences. An EP was released ('Aurora') and then earlier this year, the band treated the music listening public to their self released debut full length offering, 'The Mothman Prophecies'. I understand that what we have here is a concept album and from information I have been able to obtain, “tells the story of a human heart in the middle of darkness and light, trying to find it's right way and it's right place.” This album is to my ears excellent, with the opening four tracks blistering their way out of your speakers. Then the excellent power ballad 'Silent' slows things down just a little, with awesome guitar solo too, compliments Carlos “Afro” Robles. Indeed, back tracking to third number 'No Hopes', I must say that I have been familiar with that song now for a year or so, but that is another story! The second half of the album powers along quite nicely and I am beginning to notice how the vocals of Juls kinda remind me of Christianna from Greek rockers Elysion, another band that I am totally in love with. Being a sucker for the odd power ballad, means I must flag up the ninth track on the album 'I Hold On To You', an awesome piano led number with great instrumentation, while final track 'Unbreakable', also a slowie screams hit single with it's crossover appeal, this being a duet with Jose "Chego" Cabrices, a Venezuelan singer whose current band is 'UnosInfames'. This album rocks and has come as a rather pleasant surprise. Check out their reverbnation, and if you are a fan of the genre, this album is highly recommended by myself and the Ravenheart team... 9/10 (Dave)
JoanOvArc..'BENEATH THE SKY' EP
(AJR Records) Reviewed 31st August 2011
JoanovArc hail from Stevenage here in the UK. Well I knew Stevenage had a half decent soccer team that play in one of the lower leagues of English Football. But it seems that the town has a more than half decent band of musicians too, and what's more they are all girls to please fans of the genre. Now after that little chit chat, what about the music on this five track offering? Totally mind blowing, and it is no wonder that this band has been recently gigging on the European mainland. All the tracks are of a high calibre alternative rock style, with catchy melodies galore. 'Running Away' kinda reminds me of Kelly Clarkson, while 'Sisters' is one of those numbers that gets trapped in your head and won't go away. This is a pretty damn good effort, and I would like to hear more from this band. Check them out at their reverbnation.8.75/10 (Dave)
KITTIE..'I'VE FAILED YOU'
(Massacre Records) Reviewed 19th August 2011
Kittie is a Canadian heavy metal band formed in London, Ontario in 1996. A quartet of women, the group rose to success in 1999 when the track 'Brackish' from their debut album 'Spit' became a hit single. The band has toured with famous acts in the past, including Slipknot during the early 2000s on their UK tour. While their earlier works have been primarily in an alternative and nu-metal style, their sound has evolved over the last decade into a curious amalgam of alternative, thrash and groove metal, offering a brutal barrage of music, with the harsh lead vocals of Morgan Lander, reminding me of black metal. There are eleven tracks here that follow the above musical style very nicely, although they do offer up an equal dose of melody and brutality. Indeed, we do find clean vocals at times, listen to 'What Have I Done', 'Never Come Home' and 'Time Never Heals' as examples, and there is some accoustic stuff too on the instrumental 'Empires (Part I)', before 'Empires (Part II) then blows your speakers apart. Despite the band having been around for 12 years, this is actually my first real foray into Kittie territory. This offering is not bad and is definitely one for you metalheads out there....8.5/10 (Dave)
IONA..'ANOTHER REALM'
(Open Sky Records) Reviewed 20th July 2011
British band Iona were formed in the late 80's and went on the produce six increasingly successful albums. After a five year hiatus they are making up for lost time with this brand new double album, making it the perfect opportunity to discover their music. The Island of Iona, off the west coast of Scotland, is one of the holiest sites in Europe. After the monastery was founded in AD 563 by St. Cuthbert it went on to become the resting place of around 60 Scottish and Viking kings including Macbeth (1040-1057) who in reality was a rather good king in contrast to Shakespeare’s villain. The band took their name from their début album which told the story of Iona, and I cannot think of a more fitting name for this band, suiting perfectly their Christian beliefs and Celtic infused music. For those of you new to the band it becomes quickly apparent that the likes of Mostly Autumn and Karnataka owe a lot to Iona, who in turn are influenced by bands like Clannad, Camel, Yes, Horslips and Mike Oldfield, resulting in beautiful melodic rock with strong folk, prog and symphonic leanings. The folk element and signature sound comes from new Uillean pipes player Martin Nolan who replaced Troy Donockley, a name that will be very familiar to Mostly Autumn and Nightwish fans. Uillean pipes are perhaps the closest instrument to a lead guitar in sound, at times it is difficult to tell them apart especially when playing in unison, although they do have a distinctive trill and timbre. Many tracks allow the band to stretch their legs as glide from atmospheric ethereal to more powerful livelier passages, featuring Dave Bainbridge's smooth soaring guitar work that reminds me of Andy Latimer, Joanne Hogg's lush keyboard sounds and the leads and reels of Martin. A lot of drummers today have reduced their tom toms to just one mounted or they are just there for show but drummer Frank Van Essen uses his vast array extensively, as well as providing plaintive violin like on the sublime instrumental 'Ruach'. Not surprisingly there is an almost gospel hymn like quality to the refrains, this is music to bring peace to a troubled world and a tormented soul, soothed by Joanne's velvet voice. Although certainly not soporific, it's not music that you can jig around the house to, more for quiet contemplation, relaxation and reflection. Personal highlights include the title track 'Another Realm', the favourable 'Clouds', 'Let The Waters Flow' with its catchy tune and the truly epic 'White Horse'. This is just an observation and not a criticism but 95 minutes is a heck of a long time to sit listening to any album, by the end you will so chilled out you will be horizontal, so it is perhaps better looked at as two albums to be played at different times. A sublime album that will appeal to prog, folk and melodic rock aficionados, their island lies just off Mull at this location, an otherworldly 8.75/10 (Phil)
JULIAN'S LULLABY..'DREAMING OF YOUR FEARS'
(STF Records) Reviewed 12th May 2011
Julian's Lullaby from Greece were formed in 2004 and released a 26 minute demo in 2008 called 'I Can Hear You Thinking', with some of the songs being been re-recorded for this début album. Their brand of light romantic gothic symphonic rock/metal is very difficult to categorise, the closest I can get to their “blend of power, melody and dark romance” is Russian's Sea of Despair who I described as being “Romantic Heavy Rock”, but with extra classical violin and acoustic rock, as if Rickie Blackmore took elements of Mother Earth period Within Temptation, Mostly Autumn and Rainbow to create a band called Mostly Within Rainbow's Night. Equally unusual is the twin semi operatic vocal attack of lovely ladies Margina and Aprilia who take it in turns to sing the lead or harmonise or provide a counter melody. The music may be unique but it is so easy to listen to, familiar but novel. There are a nice blend of good tunes, from the more melancholy and stormy like 'Ocean of Tears', to the more up-tempo such as the rocking 'Sand on you Hands' to the more upbeat like the catchy 'Kiss Me Not (Tonight)'. Other highlights include the superb 'Just For That Day' featuring loads of splendid violin by Triantafyllos Vavatsikos and the gentler semi-acoustic 'Would It Be'. Savvas Betinis contributes the odd low growl but nothing for anti growlers to worry about, and the Greeks and Russians do it better than anyone, unlike the Dutch who always sound as if they are being garrotted. I'm not convinced the girls are always totally in tune, but I have sensitive ears as a result of spending years tuning Moogs and guitars, and they seem to grow in confidence as the album progresses. Production is simple but effective and suits the music, allowing you you to hear every instrument clearly including Charis Kambitsis rattling around his toms with great aplomb. To paraphrase their own words, no angels, demons or dark desire can keep you apart from this dream of an album so gently rock yourself to their website, a fearless 8.5/10 (Phil)
KRYPTERIA..'ALL BEAUTY MUST DIE'
(Liberatio Music) Reviewed 27th April 2011
This German band's origins go back to 2001 and a musical theatre project called Krypteria, then in 2004 stunning Korean singer Jo-In Cho was invited to sing on the charity single 'Liberatio' for the Indian tsunami and they became a fully fledged band, this being their 4th album in this incarnation. With their ancestry they have a more commercial ear that most metal bands and have never been afraid of the tag 'pop-metal', and why should they be, there's nothing wrong with trying to appeal to as many people as possible. Their sound lies somewhere between Lacuna Coil at their most catchy, Nightwish at their most groovy and HB at their most anthemic, with massed choirs helping Jo-Lin to belt out immense, colossal, humongous choruses that have a touch of musical theatre about them, just listen to the thumping refrain of 'Fly Away With Me'. This is like the soundtrack to the next James Bond film, dramatic, theatrical and with song titles like 'You Killed Me', 'Live to Fight Another Day' and 'Turn The World Around', I half expected Daniel Craig to suddenly crash through the window. They belt through ten thrillers ranging from the more emotive alt-metal 'As I Slowly Bleed' to the almost sword waving power metal polka 'Thanks For Nothing' at the other end of the spectrum, and the Queen of Metal Doro Petch makes a guest appearance on the symphonic stomper 'Victoria'. Then you get the classic lighter waving ballad 'Hurt So Bad' and finally the pièce de résistance, the creepy eleven minute 'Eye Collector', which throws anything and everything including Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata into the pot. Jo-Lin deliciously sings “Hello, lovely, follow me, Step into my parlour please, Take a slice, I must insist, Come inside now, don't resist”, well, how can I turn down such an invitation? Jo-Lin is also a talented classical pianist and this is the first album where time all the band members get a turn at the mike. The three bonus tracks are well worth the extra admission, they include two new versions of songs dating back to their musical theatre days, the totally awesome 'Get The Hell Out of My Way' and a piano version of 'Liberatio', plus 'Come Hell or High Water' which is set to the tune of Elgar's 'Land of Hope and Glory' made famous by the British annual classical music concert The Last Night of the Proms, I was waving my Union Jack and blowing my party poppers with gusto. Krypteria have really ramped everything up on this one and you will be dying to get you hands on this beauty, their website is here, a theatrical 9/10 (Phil)
INTROITUS..'ELEMENTS'
(Progress Production) Reviewed 20th April 2011
The gynaecologist’s favourite melodic prog band are back with a their second album. Please don't do an image search to see what the band look like, the results could be very embarrassing, or even potentially disastrous for gentlemen if your partner walks in a catches you. Their first album 'Fantasy' was a labour of love for Swedes Mats and Anna Bender and their friends and family for over ten years, this second album has taken just four. The powerful funky groovy opener 'The Hand That Feeds You' shows that they have brought their sound bang up to date, adding some Reasoning and Ayreon into the Bender's blend of Pink Floyd, Camel, Marillion and Pendragon. It has all the tradition of prog past but it could only have been made today. It's packed with Anna's soulful voice, Matt's incredible keyboards and synths, and outstanding contributions from all the band. The production and sound is top notch, proof a home produced album can sound like it was recorded in an expensive professional studio and not on a cheap mobile phone. Between the four main songs and the instrumental 'Restless' are four brief atmospheric interludes based on the four elements which gives the album its title. There is tremendous continuity in each song, they are all very long, averaging about 12 minutes, but sound short because they are never dragged out, there is no aimless noodling, and they are all of a piece, not like a load of different bits stuck together. 'Hand That Feeds You' and 'Dreamscape' move effortlessly between light/powerful, vocal/instrumental passages. 'Soulprint' builds and builds as is grows from soft classical to a strut powered along by son Mattias's skilful drumming and daughter Johanna's percussion, it quietens and then builds again into the rousing refrain, I love it when a band has the ability to cruise along like a finely tuned Ferrari. 'Like Always' is a classic ballad, a big name like Celine Dion would have a massive hit with an edited version. This has everything you want in a melodic prog record, great songs, tunes, musicianship and sounds with the right balance of light/heavy, simple/complex and all the traditional values of classic prog but slap bang up to date. To save you getting into trouble, their consulting rooms are here, a terrific 8.75/10 (Phil)
ILUMINATO..'REFLECTIONS OF HUMANITY'
(Self Release) Reviewed 6th March 2011
You either like Cradle of Filth or loathe them. Anyway, what has Cradle of Filth got to do with Iluminato? I so happen to like Cradle of Filth (so what I hear you cry), and listening to Brazilian based Metal Band Iluminato, Cradle of Filth is one such band that springs to mind, when I hear the gut wrenching male vocals on this release. But we also have the totally awesome and operatic vocals of leading lady Liz Demier. Liz hails from France, and that country sure seems to be a hot bed of metal at this moment in time. This record, (the band's first album) 'Reflections of Humanity', features 10 tracks that are going to pull out the issues and disturbances of humanity, seeking a direction that transcends our times, without rules and censure. The songs bring lyrics that speak in a subjective tone and an emotional and dreamlike air of themes, covering the human as a spiritual being that is questioning himself in the midst of chaos of modern society. Featuring both male and female vocals that play a prominent role within the stories that unfold within each track, this album is an interesting release. And although a kinda concept album, the songs are not really the sequel of any story. For you movie buffs, Howard Beale is also featured on the album...he being a fictional character (played by Peter Finch) from the movie 'Network' (1976). In the movie, Beale, the anchorman for the UBS Evening News, on the UBS television network, struggles to accept the ramifications of the social ailments and depravity existing in the world he reports on. Anyway, some corking Symphonic Gothic Metal tracks on offer here in the mold of Cradle of Filth, Tristania (of old) and Epica amongst others. If those aforementioned bands wet your appetite, then please do check Iluminato out at their myspace. Or better still, for a limited time only, the album can be downloaded here.. free album download 8.5/10 (Dave)
IMPERIA..'SECRET PASSION'
(Massacre Records) Reviewed 21st February 2011
This is Finnish/Norwegian Gothic Metal Quartet Imperia's 3rd album, their last 'Queen of Light' being released nearly 4 years ago. Fronted by the awesome Norwegian lass Helena Iren Michaelsen, who sings in a variety of styles from deep emotional feelings to extreme operatic expressions, the music itself is full of vivacity, it is heavy, bombastic and orchestral, but it also contains elements of pure metal. The record consists of 12 songs and it was recorded in different studios in Germany, Belgium, Finland and Norway, the mix being done by Jacob Hansen in Denmark. The opening salvo of 'Touch Your Hand' and 'Secret Passion' fire out of the speakers like a turbo charged Rhino, with Helena on top form, and the band firing on all four cylinders aswell and excellent orchestration to boot. Of course this may be nothing new, but if it ain't broken, why fix it? 'Fragile' slows things down a bit with a Middle Eastern feel at times, while 'Out of Sight' is so catchy that it screams "play me on the radio". 'Let Down' is a slow but totally dynamic ballad featuring Tina Guo on cello. 'Violence' and the catchy 'Like Rain' (awesome chorus) are further Gothic Epic Metal tunes that blast out of your speakers and make you sit up and take notice. 'Suicide' is a heavy but quirky tune that has a brief bagpipe intro with Helena sounding a little like Kate Bush on acid at times:) 'Hold On' is another cool power ballad, with 'Greed' taking it up a notch or two with great choral interlude. 'Missing It All' and the piano led ballad 'My Sleeping Angel' (a duet with Oliver Philipps from Everon), end this album and to be honest, the quality does not slacken at all throughout the 60 minutes. A totally dynamic release. The digi-pak version by the way which is the one I am reviewing having 13 tracks, the bonus cut being the electro sounding and very danceable 'Mistress'. This album offers huge crossover potential in both the goth and metal scene and to be honest, and to my ears anyway easily betters their last release. I have to say that for fans of the genre, there is no way this record will disappoint. It gets released 25th March so put it on your shopping list..9.5/10(Dave)
K REPUBLIC..'ALL THOSE THINGS I LEFT BEHIND'
(Studio Novi Records) Reviewed 17th February 2011
This the product of a unique musical union between Russia and America. Kukryniksy are a platinum selling Russian gothic rock band, and when lead singer Alex Gorshenev met lovely American country singer songwriter Stephanie Starr the idea for K Republic was born. It is also a union between Alex's deep gothic tones and Steph's pop country twang, the result is a cross between The Mission, The Damned, The Walker Brothers, Love and Shania Twain, a sort of gothic country rock pop is the closest I can get. It is roughly divided into deeper gothic songs 'Last Resort', 'Nobody (Life and Death)', and 'Hometown'; ridiculously catchy numbers 'Speed', 'Clear Days', 'Tell Me' and 'SOS'; and awesome mellow strummers 'My Highway' and 'Vertical'. Before you ask, track 9 really is THAT 'Annie's Song', but before you throw yourself into the sleepy blue ocean, it's not as bad as you might think, so all together now, 'You fill up my senses, like a night in a forest....'. The production is also an unusual mix, very 21st century but with a subtle 60's psychedelic vibe, you think to yourself that song sounds like a classic from way back, but hang on, they didn't have guitar processors, synthesizers and digital sound quality 40 odd years ago (monophonic Moogs the size of elephants, 4 track tape and wah/fuzz peddles were the height of technology in those days). This is the sort of album that will leave some people scratching their heads wondering what on earth is going on, whilst others, like me, will delight in it's eccentric uniqueness and superb songwriting that will leave you grinning like a Cheshire cat. It's available to download for free from their website so you can make up your own minds. I personally love it like the mountains in springtime, a senses filling 8.75/10 (Phil)
INDIGO DARKPSYCH..'THESE ARE THE ROOTS'
(Self Release) Reviewed 31st January 2011
Indigo DarkPsych is fronted by Marvic (Maria Victoria)'Indigo' Lewis. She was born in 1980 in Malta and started her singing career at the age of eight. Originally known as Indigo, in November 2003 Marvic released her first single 'Washed Away' on radio, and in July 2004 released 'Struck'. They both turned out to be great hits, and in fact she was nominated as a best solo artist in the Bay Music Awards 2004. This inspired her as Indigo to continue writing and developing that same style, until she concluded a whole album under the name of 'STRUCK'. That album being an awesome slab of Alternative Hard Rock with subtle touches of Electronica, and stacks of melody. Now her second release 'These Are The Roots' has hit the airwaves, and a heavier perhaps more metallic sound it is too, maintaining however the melodic sensibility that was so apparent in her debut release. Marvic co wrote and co produced this record aswell, and was even responsible for the album artwork, so this lass is not just a pretty face. Anyway, the records kicks off with 'Delve' and Marvic lays her cards on the table with this track. I am sure this is the kinda music the Americans for example would love to get their hands on, Alternative Hard Rock with crunching guitars coupled with an Industrial sound. 'Thru The Darkpsych' continues in a similar vein, with shades of Electronica shining through on the catchy 'Burn Alive'. In-fact the remainder of the cd keeps up a high standard, 'Black Sheep Die' for example starts accoustically before the chorus cuts in and hits you like a Mike Tyson body blow, while 'No Other Reason' shows progressive tendencies. 'Rip It Down' has the accompanying video at Female Voices Blog, and I like the downtuned guitars on the up tempo 'Not The End' - heavy! To summarise, the album as a whole is uplifting and certainly energetic, so check the lass out at Indigo Darkpsych Myspace Site. This record is impressive...8.5/10 (Dave)
KONTRUST..'TIME TO TANGO'
(Artist Station/EMI) Reviewed 5th January 2011
Kontrust are a nutty alt-metal band from Austria, fronted by the beautiful Agata and her sidekick Stefan. Stefan's vocal style is a curious mix of rap, toasting, growling and singing, a sort of cross between Andrea Ferra and Shaggy, whilst Agata has a superb Cristina Scabbia/Annie Lennox type voice. They throw in anything and everything from Latin to world to tribal to swing rhythms, the result being a bonkers Lacuna Coil or alt-metal's answer to the Diablo Swing Orchestra. This is summed up by the video for the barmy 'Bomba', a Sound of Music/Heidi spoof with the band in stereotypical Tyrolean fancy dress and sporting silly moustaches (apart from Agata of course, that really would be silly) that's incredibly had over one and a half million views, showing that they have also crossed over into the mainstream (on Female Voices blog). However, beneath the zany exterior beats the heart of a bona fide top class metal band, this is no novelty act, this bunch can groove like a rampant beast on ecstasy. The name by the way translates as the Dutch for bum rest, urmm yes, I'm baffled too. The album is packed with 13 ridiculously catchy tunes (plus 3 interludes) with massive choruses, humongous hooks and loads of clever bits and pieces. Faves come thick and fast, amongst them 'Dancer in the Sun' with it's touch of samba, the swinging 'Play With Fire', the smashing 'The Smash Song' (also on blog), the infectious 'Clown Parade' with it's hint of La Bamba, the new single 'Zero' and the angry eastern inflected 'Face and Filter' with a BOOM BOOM that nearly shattered my windows. The lovely atmospheric emotional 'Sin' shows they can do serious as well. The production not surprisingly for a major label release is premier league, but I have one very serious complaint, there's no tango! Not only is this a sure fire winner for alt-metal fans but you can also take it to your next rave up. Should be widely available, so dear friends it's time to tango to their website http://www.kontrust.info/, a smashing 8.75/10 (Phil)
KATANGA..'MOONCHILD'
(Massacre Records) Reviewed 23rd December 2010
This is the new album by East German Gothic Band Katanga, fronted by Mario (Clean Male Vox) and Doreen (Female Vox). KATANGA was founded in 1998 and in addition to a couple of EPs, has one full length album under their belt prior to this one - 'Darkchild' released in 2006 on the Rabazco label. The band has now released a little epic here, 18 tracks running at over 73 mins, so you sure get your monies worth, being sung in both German and English. The brief instrumental 'Marquis De Sade' kicks this platter off, and the Marquis himself had the desire to inflict pain for pleasure, especially sexual pleasure. And this I must say is reflected in the opener, and to an extent second track 'Gottlos'. 'Moerder Der Erinnerung' is an awesome gothic thumper, that hammers along at a decent pace, with much of the album falling into this pounding foot tapping Atmospheric Gothic Metal category. The title track features Gothic choral arrangements and synths before the guitars kick in. A catchy chorus on offer here, with Mario's vocals tending to dominate over those of Doreen, which is the case throughout most of the album. 'Lemuria' offers the first real solo tase albeit brief of Doreen's vocals, while one of the best tracks to my ears is 'I'm Gonna Die For You'. An absolute belter of a ballad, radio friendly with ultra cool lyrics, synths and guitar solo, a sure fire hit if ever I heard one! 'Schwarze Fluegel' enters heavy metal territory proving that this band can rock, but still with the trademark catchy chorus! This is proving a very interesting release indeed, from a band I must admit to not being very familiar with prior to this record. The closing three tracks, the pounding 'Batfight', the awesome 'From Dusk Til Dawn' and the splendid 'Death of the Fun Generation' (another fave), are reworkings I believe of tracks from the band's debut album. Massacre Records has released a good un here, and it will appear in the stores at the end of January. Well worth checking out and worthy of a 9/10 (Reviewed by Dave)
INFINITY OVERTURE..'THE INFINITE OVERTURE PT. 1'
(Lion Music) Reviewed 15th December 2010
Danish progressive metallers Infinity Overture return with their second album. Led by the superb guitar and compositional skills of Neils Vejlyt, the band has taken a step away from the symphonic metal slant of their debut, to mark the start of an altogether darker and more distinctive journey, with enhanced progressive elements blended with gothic textures. As a result of the slight change of musical direction, Vejlyt has seen fit to change the band line-up - new female vocalist, Kimmie Tenna Nielsen (reminding me of Floor Jansen at times) is now at the helm, this being the most major change. Her moving and powerful voice driving on the new compositions, coupled occasionally by subtle male growls. There are also a number of guest backing vocalists on this release, including Amanda Somerville (Epica, Kamelot etc). What becomes apparent from the opener 'The Hunger' is Neils Vejlyt superb guitar work, brilliant! 'The Stand' is more progressive and once again features that awesome guitar by Neils. In-fact the guitar work is one of the highlights of this album - this guy can play. 'Angels' is a splendid ballad, a straight forward number that would appeal to the masses, while the progressive metal of 'Evernight' and 'Secrets' ups the tempo a touch, with these tracks showcasing Kimmie's rather awesome vocal style, and the all round musical talent of those involved! 'Back from the Past' is another simple but rather catchy ballad, featuring male vocals from Thomas Jensen, while 'Smoke and Mirrors' returns to the progressive and intricate style of some of the earlier tracks. The title track true to it's name, is a progressive metal epic while closer, 'Darkness of Mind' is a rather cool piano led ballad. Sascha Paeth (Edguy, Rhapsody of Fire, Kamelot) once again oversaw the mix, with the outcome being another full and rich sounding release. I would class this as thinking person's music, but having said that, this record certainly has great overall potential, hitting the streets on 21st January - 8.75/10 (Reviewed by Dave)
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