Ravenheart Music: Album Reviews
REVIEWS P-R
Please also visit our comprehensive reviews storage library at Ravenheart Music Archived Reviews.
PURPLE NAIL...'NIGHT LIGHTS'
(Self Release) Reviewed 17th June 2013
Purple Nail come from Sweden, and I keep asking what the Scandinavians put in their water, as there seems to be a continuous stream of good music coming from those parts. Furthermore, having seen pictures of this band, they seem so young, they sure have the right image, but despite their apparent tender young years, they have produced an album of music that is so mature, enjoyable and catchy, that it had left me pressing the repeat button after the cd had finished. What we have here basically is 12 tracks of Melodic Gothic Rock and Metal that takes a mix of many bands from the female fronted scene and mixes it all up to give us the music of Purple Nail. Indeed, I do actually find the music on this record rather unique, with the vocals of the lovely Lady Crow angelic bordering on the operatic at times, but without overdoing the operatics if that makes sense. Without going into track by track by detail, this release is totally awesome with standout numbers to my ears being 'Bring Me Down', 'Not Afraid' and the single 'Blood Tonight'. But to be honest, they are all good, and I would like to state that this is a very good effort from this band. Their website is www.thepurplenail.com, and I must say that Purple Nail are well worth checking out, so go and buy their music and support a hard working independent band - awesome! 8.75/10 (Dave)
PARAMORE...'PARAMORE'
(Atlantic Records) Reviewed 4th June 2013
Paramore are back with their 4th studio release and the 1st without founder members Zac (drums) and Josh Farro (guitar). Formed in 2004, the band currently consists of lead vocalist Hayley Williams, bassist Jeremy Davis, and guitarist Taylor York. But without the Farro brothers, who were the primary source of Paramore’s songwriting team, the band I must say has released a solid and very addictive record here, with song writing duties now taken over by Hayley Williams and Taylor York. Track after track (and there are 17 of them) hit the right button being full of commercial pop/rock appeal, just like their previous releases. As I say, there are 17 numbers although three of them are just short ukulele inspired 'interludes', but overall, this is a very good and mature record from this young band. There are plenty of stand out tracks like the opener 'Fast In My Car', the catchy 'Ain't It Fun' (which is such a blast!), the awesome 'Last Hope', the bouncy and catchy '(One of Those) Crazy Days' and the punk feel of 'Be Alone'. The closing number 'Future' is a great track to close the album that starts acoustically and then explodes into a guitar/synths frenzy. I have read that the Farro brothers left because they claimed that the band was "a manufactured product of a major-label." They further accused Hayley Williams of being manipulated by her management, treating the rest of the group as her solo project, and claimed she was the only member of the band who was signed to Atlantic Records. But who effectively cares when it is this good! 8.5/10 (Dave)
ROBYN...'DESIRE'
(Self Released) Reviewed 10th December 2012
This 8 track 30 minute album is as far as I am aware the second release from songstress Robyn, her previous offering 'Who I Am' being released in 2006. 'Desire' is full of delightful pop/rock songs, the occasional heart felt ballad, coupled with an acoustic flavour that pops up on some numbers. Great stuff and I would say this release would please fans of Heart, Melissa Etheridge and Sheryl Crow. The record is available from cdbaby, and is worth checking out if you prefer your music on the lightweight side. This is her website, so why not pay her a visit..8/10 (Dave)
RIVERLUST...'INNOCENCE'
(Self Release) Reviewed 23rd October 2012
Riverlust hail from Hungary, and this 6 track EP of epic Symphonic Power Metal is a must for fans of the genre. What I like about this style of music from these Hungarians, is the vocals from Zsizsu are not necessarily Symphonic, but are more akin to a Pop/Rock style. As I previously mention, there are six numbers here, with the EP kicking off with a brief instrumental before the whole affair kicks in good and proper - upbeat Power Metal from 'Edge of Innocence' through to closer 'Passage'. The EP can be downloaded from their FACEBOOK so what are you waiting for - good stuff! 8.75/10 (Dave)
REVOLVING DOOR...'MILK AND HONEY'
(Fastball Music) Reviewed 23rd October 2012
If Paramore or In This Moment (without the screaming) excites you, then check this lot out from Germany. The band was founded in 2004, and since 2006 they have performed over 350 gigs and they play every year around 50 to 70 concerts. So they are not novices by any means, even though I admit I have never heard of them before - shame on me. What this band fronted by Liesa offer up here are 12 up tempo catchy rock numbers, well influenced by the current modern rock and metal scene. This is a no filler all killer album running in at around 43 minutes, and will be well worthy of the purchase price when it gets released on the 26th October. Check the band out here ...this is pretty damn good! 8.75/10 (Dave)
RAVENLAND...'NEVERMORE'
(Self Released) Reviewed 16th October 2012
This little EP has two new tracks from the awesome Brazilian band Ravenland. And upon listening to what I have here, I detect that this band is certainly moving forward leaps and bounds from their previous full length offering, which in itself was damn good! Ravenland keep the dual vocal attack of Dewindson Wolfheart together with new vocalist Juliana Rossi, and I like what I hear. The title track and single is a good un, with Dewindson's vocals making an immediate impression, but it is the second track 'Sad Afternoon' that screams airplay and has a certain shall we say commercial appeal about it - I like it. It is difficult to score a two track EP, but a full length album based on what I have heard here, I am sure will be awesome! Check the band's music out including these two tracks here. (Dave)
RISE OF AVERNUS...S'T EP
(Self Release) Reviewed 23rd August 2012
RISE OF AVERNUS is a progressive doom metal five piece from Sydney, Australia. The brainchild of guitarist / vocalist Ben Vanvollenhoven (Ex-STODOWA) and vocalist / keyboardist, Catherine Guirguis (KATABASIS, Ex-BLACK HORIZON), the music is based around the incongruent, yet complimentary combination of Guirguis’ classically inspired piano melodies and Vanvollenhoven’s monolithic riffs. Through their duelling vocal personas, Catherine and Ben explore dark poignant themes, with impassioned arrangements and a unique down tempo theatricality. There are three tracks on this rather good EP that will sweep you on an atmospheric journey of enchanting sombre beauty and crushing metal crescendos. It is a kinda mish mash of Paradise Lost meets Draconian meets Lacuna Coil, although I am sure listeners will conceive their own ideas. The epic and awesome 8 minute plus number 'Beneath the Frozen Hand of Time', also features vocal contributions from Marc Grewe, front man of the legendary German death metal group MORGOTH, and his contribution compliments the track very well. RISE OF AVERNUS weave an atmospheric journey that sweeps the listener into a rapture of enchanting sombre beauty and crushing metal crescendos and they are well worth checking out HERE...8.5/10 (Dave)
RESILIENCE...'BIRTH'
(Self Release) Reviewed 31st July 2012
Resilience is a project formed in France in 2004 by guitarist Benjamin Sertelon and gorgeous Adeline Gurtner, who we last met as lead singer of Akin, whose wonderful album 'The Way Things End' I reviewed last year. The title comes from when Adeline left Akin in 2004 in difficult circumstances, and the resilience she showed, it was only recently that the band members reconciled their differences and reformed to produce that album. Their melodic prog rock/metal falls in the same general area as Wedingoth, Delusion Squared, The Gathering, The Reasoning, Pulse of Reason and Touchstone, but there is a distinctive slant, more of which later. Their music is powered along by Ben's driving guitars, laid on beds of bubbling Jean Michel Jarre esque sequencers and synths, and topped by Adeline's superb expressive voice. The introduction 'Introspection' sounds like one of those self hypnosis relaxation tapes.................... sorry, where was I, ah yes, which is followed by a trio of more conventional concise songs that that really rock along. Now things become interesting as they begin to show their prog credentials with their first multi-faceted epic, 'Finally Be Me', then 'The Edge of the Abyss Inside' that really steams along, and the delicate reflective 'Let Him Fly'. The next song ‘The Fall’ has what appears at first to be a real curve ball, as they throw in some Beyoncé style R&B, as you do, and why not, it's bootyliscous. However, there is a catchy pop soul R&B undercurrent that surfaces throughout the album, but here's it's highlighted. 'In The Hurry' really grooves and funks before none other than Daniel Gildenlöw (Pain of Salvation) takes the mike for 'Introspection 2.0' that heads towards The Foo Fighters mixed with Ayreon. Finally, the pulsating 'Threat' and their second awesome epic 'Rewind' feature all their influences from pop soul r&b to electronica to melodic prog metal. Ben and Adeline have produced a smart, sophisticated and stylish album that can take prog into new trendy territory, far removed from from it's 60's beards and kaftans origins. In fact 'The Fall' (without its electronica second part) and 'In The Hurry' have real single potential. J-set your way to their Facebook, a brilliant, resilient 9/10 (Phil)
REIGN OF THOUGHT...'BEGINNING OF THE END'
(Self Release) Reviewed 28th June 2012
Reign of Thought are a new prog metal band for Albany, in the Big Apple, founded by guitarists Matt Becker and Aeron Yerdon, with Shanna Becker on vocals who also supplies the keys and violin. Their music is in the same Central Park as a less technical Akribi, Tool and To Mera, with some alt-metal thrown into the mix à la Edenial, with Shanna's vocals veering towards the more European semi-operatic style away from typical American alt-metal wailers. They present on their début a set of consistent numbers based around jagged staccato riffing, with Shanna's expressive voice carrying the melody. I particularly like the more symphonic power metal 'Reality and the Dream', the Spanish jazzy flavoured 'When Daylight Ends', and the tasty guitar in the subtler 'In My Head'. American bands seem reluctant to use keys, an important ingredient in prog, perhaps it's not considered 'cool' and 'metal', the interlude and her occasional embellishments show that Shanna is a talented keyboardist, I wish they had used them more to add variety and richness to the well produced sound, and her violin only features very briefly, which seems a shame. A good solid prog metal album from a band that has tremendous untapped potential. Their throne can be found here, a thoughtful 8.25/10 (Phil)
phoenix/NEBULIN...'VITAE'
(Electric Halo Records) Reviewed 26th June 2010
What a corker we have from these rockers from Miami in Florida. This I understand is their third release of original material (there was a remix and covers album released in 2009), their previous original album being 'Meridian' being back in 2006. Basically the band was conceived shortly after the marriage of vocalist Phoenix and drummer/songwriter/producer Armando back in 2001. In October 2003 their debut full length album titled 'Distanza' was released, and in November 2006 phoenix/NEBULIN released their sophomore album 'Merdian'. On this album the band’s sound took a heavier hard rock approach. And that hard rock approach with electro influences is strongly apparent on this album. What we have here is 11 tracks of catchy hard rock with those aforementioned electro influences...totally great stuff from the band - music that will bang around in your head for ages after the cd has come off the player. Take 'Bleeding On The Inside' and the rocking 'Irreverence' as two such tracks, so so catchy!! I hear Nine Inch Nails, Evanescence and even possibly electro period Theatre of Tragedy on this album and I am highly impressed with what I hear. Every track is a humdinger and this band deserves attention from the female fronted rock and metal fan. On this album, phoenix/NEBULIN has elevated their sound to a new level taking musical and technical inspiration from various giants of the industry. Check them out here, whilst I well recommend this!...9.25/10 (Dave)
RAVENSCRY...'ACOUSTIC PARENTHIS OF A DREAM STATE' EP
(Self Released) Reviewed 25th May 2012
Italian Band Ravenscry have given us an EP of 4 acoustic workings of numbers that appeared on their debut 'One Way Out' album, that picked up a 9/10 review last May (doesn't time fly?). The main feature with this cd, as with their debut full length offering is the vocals of leading lady Angela Fagiuoli, that are simply awesome, and take this music onto another level. Anybody who has 'One Way Out' in their cd collection, will be familiar with the songs here, anybody who is just curious, well maybe I would advise to go all out and purchase the band's debut cd. Having said that, this EP is a very useful acoustic introduction to the band. Pop to their Myspace here..8/10 (Dave)
REASONS BEHIND...'OUVERTURE' EP
(Self Release) Reviewed 8th May 2012
Born from the ashes of a gothic metal cover band (After Forever, Within Temptation, Nightwish), Reasons Behind is a power - prog - symphonic metal band from Italy, fronted by the lovely Elisa. I suppose to be honest, for anybody that misses Tarja era Nightwish, Reasons Behind could be the band to satisfy your appetite. Indeed, anyone who likes the bands mentioned above, this should be right up your alleyway, although the Nightwish influences shine through the strongest. Opener 'The End Of Our Chapter' certainly has that Nightwish feel with the operatic vocals of Ely from the top drawer of Operatic Metal. Great instrumentation and musicianship coming to the fore on this opener. 'My Last Act' carries on where the opener left off, and the strong Nightwish theme continues with '1000 Fading Lives', a great thumping Symphonic rocker with a further awesome vocal contribution from Ely. 'Choices' has a great instrumental intro and is possibly one of my fave tracks on this EP, while the slower and emotional 'The Last Night Of Ilion' finishes of this mighty EP. To finalise, if this band were to record a full length album of the quality we have here, it would be mightily good. Okay, they will be compared to Nightwish, but so what! Check them out here - recommended!! ...8.75/10 (Dave)
PERPETUATE..S/T CD
(Self Released) Reviewed May 1st 2012
Let us loosely imagine a mix of Evanescence and Iron Maiden, and if this was to get you a little excited, then maybe the Canadian band Perpetuate will be right up your alleyway. Featuring some wild lead guitar from James Hush and Chris Rafinski, plus the awesome vocals of keyboardist Kim McInnis, this 7 track offering from the band featuring 5 original songs (my copy is graced with a bonus track) is an epic affair, which also features a cover of the Iron Maiden Classic 'The Trooper'. Great Power Metal within the seven tracks here with a progressive undercurrent, Kims vocals swaying between those of a powerful Rock Goddess to those of an Operatic Angel, and ably backed up by the band I hasten to add. There is no let up from the powerful opener 'Above and Beyond' to the closing duo of the aforementioned 'The Trooper' and the additional bonus song 'Black Velvet', originally recorded by Alannah Myles. I would certainly recommend checking this band out further, so why not start at their website here... 8.5/10 (Dave)
ROMEO'S DAUGHTER....'RAPTURE'
(RD Records) Reviewed 25th April 2012
Here we have an album from a band that hail back to the late 80s'. Their debut was partly produced by 'Mutt' Lange (who also worked with Def Leppard) and partly by John Parr (St. Elmo's Fire). It presented a melodic AOR style with refreshing originality. Their second album 'Delectable' from 1992, did not quite hit the spot to my ears anyway of the S/T debut, but was and still is worth checking out nonetheless. So what about this newie from Leigh Matty and the band. It to my ears is a stunning return, with opener 'Trippin' Out' a stunning track with an anthemic chorus and a strong melody. 'Bittersweet' follows and almost has a country feel to it, but still with a hideously catchy chrous. 'Cannot Be The One' is a mid paced number, and proves that vocally, Leigh remains on top form, ably backed up by the band. An admirable opening threesome to this record I must admit, while the whole album continues in a similar vein, with some catchy and melodic tunes, and slower ballad type numbers. Okay, they may not offer the in yer face melodic rock assault of the debut, but this is awesome stuff full of catchy guitar based Melodic Rock goodness. Any fan of Heart and FM (amongst others of the AOR/Melodic Rock genre) should get this album and appreciate what it has to offer. An impressive return from a band who have been away for around 18 years...9/10 (Dave)
RIZON...'MASQUERADE'
(Karthago) Reviewed 20th April 2012
As befits their name, Swiss band Rizon have been on the rise through their 2005 début Evolution and the 2008 follow up Sudden Life (my review is in the archives). This new album sees a significant increase in power, with their Sonata Arctica / Statovarius esque powerful melodic metal fittingly mixed in Finland by Nino Laurenne (guitarist wth Thunderstone) in the equally appropriately named Sonic Pump Studios, they have really pumped up the sonic output. Leading out front is the perfectly matched dual vocal attack of Matthias Götz and scintillating Seraina, sounding like Tony Kakko and Doro as they trade verses and bridges, then belt out the choruses together. Opening power metaller 'High Flyer' throws down the gauntlet as they rip through a classic collection of high octane humongous rockers all equipped with immense choruses that you will be singing for weeks, but with enough variety to stop it becoming tiring, an important factor in an album with 13 tracks weighing in at a whopping 72 minutes. You will discover songs like the title track 'Masquerade' with its burst of blues, the awesome swaying anthem 'Tears of the Sun' (video on Female Voices), the dramatic 'Remotion' that takes off into the stratosphere, if they went any higher they would break orbit, the rousing eastern infused 'Same Same', the mega power ballad 'Cold Winters Night', the superb multi-faceted prog tinged 'Lost in Silence', and they finally let their hair down with the party song 'Bells' which humorously compares one of the band's choices of music, Iron Maiden, to that of his girlfriend, The Bee Gees. There are a couple of tracks from their début album that have been rerecorded by special request, the stomping Spanish 'El Dios', originally just a bonus track it has become a big favourite, written in Spanish by Matt because, in his own words, “"Soy el Dios de la noche" sounded better to my ears than "I'm the Lord of the night"”, and a new version of the epic 'Out of Nowhere' which was chosen by their fans. Rizon perform songs that in lesser hands would be good catchy melodic metal numbers, but the sophistication of their songwriting, premier league sound and musicianship that even the most ardent of prog fans will admire lifts them onto a different level. In a nutshell, this is top quality metal. Their masquerade awaits you at here, a rising 8.75 /10 (Phil)
RIFF X...'SEARCH FOR A BETTER DAY' EP
(Self Released - digital) Reviewed 11th April 2012
Let's get ready to rock and punch the air! Riff X hail from Newcastle, and I can say for a fact that this band rock, not only on cd but live too. This EP is their second EP release to my knowledge, and offers up three tracks of riff tastic rockin' tunes. The chorus on opener 'Search For A Better Day' will stick in your head and not go away, while 'Yesterday Is Dead' is a live favourite with another deadly fist thumping chorus. 'Don't Lie' is a 2012 rendition of a track that first appeared on their 'Bruises' EP from last year, and I know for a fact that this is also a live fave! A band like Riff X cannot and must not be allowed to go un-noticed. Their Facebook page is here, and the EP can be purchased from iTunes - recommended...8.5/10 (Dave)
RISING SUNSET..'EQUINOX'
(Self Release) Reviewed 30th March 2012
This Maltese band were formed way back in 2001 by guitarists Carlo Calamatta and Mario Camilleri Brennan and opera singer Christa Calamatta, releasing an EP 'Rhema' in 2005, but this is their long awaited début album. Their style is an amalgam of lively uplifting galloping gothic/power/folk/traditional opera metal, a mix of bands like Evil's Desire, Avariel, Cassandra Syndrome, Adrana and At The Lake, producing these seven historical epics, all beautifully illustrated in the booklet, and the instrumental wig-out 'Opus VII'. Christa Calamatta has a good operatic voice with a distinctive trill, and she tells the tale of the various legends in the style of a medieval singing storytelling troubadour. Fine examples include my favourite song 'Emperor of the North' which tells of King Canute who famously tried too turn back the tide, not out of arrogance as is commonly believed, but to prove to his sycophant couriers than he was not superhuman, just a wise king. Christ's sacrifice is the subject of 'Crux Sacra Sit Mihi Lux' (be the holy cross be my light), 'Immortal Devotion' is about the Egyptian legend of Osiris, and 'Parousia', probably my other favourite song, is based on the Greek New Testament's prophecy of the second coming, it all creates fascinating lyrical concepts. The original intention was to have a third guitarist, an idea pinched by Iron Maiden, but now they have violinist Oriella Casha harmonising with the guitars and forming a key component of their sound. Production has a live feel, as if the band are playing in your front room through a top quality PA system with the band dead tight, the product of years practising together, but perhaps some extra keyboards or orchestrations would have made it more grandly symphonic. There are some concerns about the pitch nuances of Oriella's violin, maybe some vibrato would soften and sweeten it, however she will grow into her instrument. A fine album for fans of operatic traditional and power metal. Their website is here, a rising 8.5/10 (Phil)
PSIDERALICA..'NEOPHOBIA'
(Team 33/Electric Chair Music) Reviewed 29th March 2012
Founded in 2002 by guitarist Toni Kernel and fronted by Toni's wife Lady Marian, Spanish band Psideralica offer up 11 tracks of Pop/Metal with an Industrial undercurrent. On this album, we hear metal guitars and synthesizers blending in with the enchanting voice of Lady Marian, who walks along the commercial pop and melodic dark metal walkway, with influences as diverse as Nine Inch Nails or Rammstein, to Madonna and Rihanna. Yep, and it works, and works very well indeed. There are some rather awesome catchy numbers here, the opening salvo of 'Fight' and 'My Toy' sets the scene rather nicely, and the pop vocals of Lady Marian seem to add a sensuality to proceedings. I am actually finding it very hard to fault this album. Okay, it may not directly appeal to the in yer face metalhead out there, but if you can imagine Rihanna fronting a metal band singing some hideously commercial pop-metal tunes, that will just about sum it up. Listen to the track 'Tonight' and I challenge you to keep still, but having said that, the whole album is a foot tapper!! I think this cd has been available for a few months now, but I do whole heartedly recommend this. This is their Facebook...9/10 (Dave)
RabieS..'DROP IN THE INFINITE'
(Fono) Reviewed 28th March 2012
This Russian symphonic formation were first formed by opera singer vivacious Vladislava Soloviev in 2006, initially to do Nightwish covers. They then started developing their own style and songs but many line-up changes and problems halted their progress until they recorded this début album at the Kranets Studios in Ufa last year. Although it has taken years for their endeavours to come to fruition, they have taken the philosophical view that it is just a brief moment in the history of time, hence the album title, 'A Drop in the Infinite'. They take their strange name from the original Latin definition which is 'fury', although this meaning is still rather odd for their style of music, it is certainly better than the modern one, perhaps they are unaware of what it now means, but be careful you don't go into your local record store and say “excuse me, have you got RabieS?”, you might get a punch on the nose! I have done my best to translate the song titles, but had to mangle them through Google translate, so happened anything have could. Their style is light lively romantic symphonic gothic metal with touches of rock and power metal featuring Vladoslava's superb authentic operatic voice with a warm vibrato and rolling R's, it's obvious that she is classically highly trained, which makes them rather unusual as most opera singers are with power metal bands, making them akin to a lighter version of a band like Silent Opera. The excellent sound by Alexander Pstyga is clean and crisp, nice warm fuzzy rhythm guitars, singing leads, super keys, and bouncing drums, with mastering at the world famous Finnvox Studio in Finland. Keys player Edauard Korshunov does a few low Russian style growls, but nothing to worry about. You get eight concise epics with the piano and string quartet instrumental 'Soot (Fog to Dusk)' acting as a delightful coda. Notable features include the dramatic 'The Return' (video on Female Voices), the catchy 'Wings', the anthemic 'The Duel', the romantic swaying ballad 'I'm Leaving', and the rocking bouncing 'Enough' with its super keys/guitar duet. The album is a bit on the short side, but it's quality, not quantity. A most enjoyable and easy to listen to album for anyone who loves light symphonic metal, their ReverbNation is here, and VK, is here, so before I go and get my nose straightened, I will give them an infinitely enjoyable 8.5 /10 (Phil)
SONJA PERENDA..'TIME HAS COME'
(Self Release) Reviewed 9th March 2012
Sonja from Austria is a fascinating and remarkable person, not only has she trained as an opera singer but she is also a lawyer who wants to help people who have fallen on hard times or ended up on the wrong side of the law. She has played concerts all over the world, including to UN soldiers in Kosovo and Syria, and like a modern day Johnny Cash, she has even performed at jails and to homeless people all over Austria and Germany. In her own words, “Thanks to my second profession I definitely know that there is no clear border between 'good and evil'. No black and white here, but a million shades of grey. In this spirit: Let's rock the jail!!”. On this album her music is perhaps best described as Tarja meets melodic heavy rock, featuring Sonja's lovely light mezzo-soprano voice. Although all the songs sound like familiar classics, they are are in fact all original songs written by a variety of songwriters, including some co-written by Sonja, and all done in her own inimitable symphonic rock/metal style. She is not out to reinvent the wheel, simply to give you a jolly good time. I am not going to say what band each song sounds like because I'll be scratching my head until my bald patch turns into a field, suffice to say you will be shouting “that reminds me of what's their name”, just think Kiss, Rainbow, Queen, The Bangles, that sort of area. Favourites include the classic metal 'Judgement Day', the catchy 'Victim of a Miracle' that I will guarantee you will be singing next day, the classic lighter waving ballad 'Voice of Peace', the infectious pop rock 'Whole Again', the grand symphonic rock 'You Had It All' and the final epic duet with Omri Lahav 'Ray of Hope', even the titles sound classic. Because there are so many producers the sound quality does vary from the excellent to the reasonable, perhaps it could do with a mastermind to get everything at a consistent standard. The jury have retired to give their verdict, after much deliberation they have decided that this is a hugely entertaining and enjoyable collection that will hold any melodic heavy rock fan captive. Her chambers can be found here, a jailhouse rocking 8.5/10 (Phil)
PYTHIA..'THE SERPENT'S CURSE'
(Golden Axe/Universal) Reviewed 13th February 2012
The UK's leading Female Fronted Warriors Pythia's (pronounced pie-thee-ya) debut album 'Beneath The Veiled Embrace', certainly caused some waves amongst the female fronted metal fraternity. Fronted by Emily Alice Ovenden, who is also a novelist and member of the number one selling act Mediaeval Babes, Pythia was formed in 2007, and were brought together by their love of Fantasy and Gothic imagery. Indeed, Emily Alice grew up in a mock Gothic Castle in Cornwall, and began singing and writing ghost stories from an early age. The aforementioned themes and imagery that she grew up with have strongly influenced her song writing, and this is apparent in the music the band records. Anyway, what about the follow up album? Well for a start, it if ain't broken, why fix it? strongly applies here. And in this album, they have produced what to my ears is another metal masterpiece that will make the world sit up and listen (that is if they didn't after their debut release). In typical Pythia tradition, the Symphonic elements are there, Melody is there, and the vocals of Emily are simply stunning!! The album starts with 'Cry of our Nation' which is a great melodic power metal number, while next up 'Betray My Heart' is the single and another great powerful track to sink your teeth into. 'Kissing The Knife' slows it down just a little and is a great number, but generally, the pace does not really slacken, with other awesome tracks like 'Just A Lie', the slower 'Dark Star', the rather catchy 'Long Live The King', the Dark and Gothy 'My Perfect Enemy' and the awesome closing track 'Our Forgotten Land'. To my ears, this album would be classed as slightly heavier than the band's debut, and long may it continue, as Pythia look set to be around for some while yet. They may perhaps be likened to Tarja era Nightwish, but let us get this straight, they certainly do not copy or clone anyone. This is dynamic, epic and bombastic stuff within all the 10 tracks on this record, great all round musicianship from all involved and well worthy of a 9.5/10 (Dave)
ROUGE..EP
(Self Released) Reviewed 16th December 2011
Born and raised in 2011 with great love and care by three men and their frontwoman, Dutch band ROUGE bring us a three track EP that delivers a strong mix of modern american rock, sweet pop harmonies and a touch of electronic music with high energy performances, a sexy bite and a pinch of heaviness. They rock with style! Just like the lemon after your tequila! 'On A Ride (All Summer Long)' is the kinda track you wanna hear while riding along the highway with the sunroof down and the warm summer wind blowing through your hair. 'Innocent' kinda reminds me of Paramore on a good day, with male vocals similar (just a little!) to those on 'Going Under' by Evanescence, while 'Opposite Directions' screams hit single. To be honest, there is a lot on offer here that suggests this band could quite easily cross over into the mainstream with the correct backing. Check them out here and support good independent music. 8.5/10 (Dave)
RAVEN TIDE..'ECHOES OF WONDER'
(Alkemist Fanatix Europe) Reviewed 12th December 2011
'Echoes of Wonder' is an awesome Melodic Gothic Album that so happens to be right up my alleyway. And the band responsible for this little epic is Raven Tide and they hail from Italy. It seems for sure that Italy is becoming very much the hot bed of Female Fronted Rock and Metal. The melodic and angelic vocals of Carlotta "Cheryl" Cimeli so happen to be the jewels on this cd, that really do make it plain to me as to why I like this genre of music so much. Ten tracks of music that for anybody that seeks a catchy chorus, they will just love this release - just listen to 'Doom Reviel' and you may well get my meaning. I love this album from opener 'Oblivion' to closer 'End To The Flame', and this will certainly appeal to the Dama, Evanescence and Elysion fans out there amongst many others no doubt. And we have a ballad and a cover, 'Frail' is a massive piano led ballad, while 'Frozen' is the Madonna song with some lush orchestration. I whole heartedly recommend this release to anyone out there into Female Fronted music that is melodic, catchy and offers up some pretty cool orchestration. Try it for yourself, why not check them out here first, I am sure you won't be disappointed ...9/10 (Dave)
PRIMER..3 Track Promo
(Self Released) Reviewed 11th November 2011
Primer is a local band to where I live, hailing from The West Midlands here in the UK. They offer up a style of hard rock and metal with Claire's Celtic style vocals mixing it very well with the heavy guitars and intense rhythm section. Indeed, in opener and live favourite 'Water', her vocals remind me a little of Sinéad O'Connor. There are three rockin' tracks on this promo cd, with closer 'I Am Anger' one of the more commercial offerings. I must say that having seen this band live on more than one occasion, they rock, and they are a hard working combo too. And the drummer Neel 'The Asian Sensation' Parmar by the way is a total nutcase, in a nice and likeable sort of way of course. Check the band out here, 8.5/10 (Dave)
PORCELAIN MOON..'...AS IT WERE. HERE AND THERE'
(Musea Parallele) Reviewed 31st October 2011
This album was originally self released under the name Porcelain, without the Moon, in 2009, but has now received worldwide release on the French label Musea, this new era signalled with an expanded name. They were formed in Finland in 2005 by a bunch of progsters who all shared a common interest in Pink Floyd, after a while they realised that it was a good idea to have a singer, so Charlotta Kerbs was brought into the fold. After reading this you are probably, like me, expecting saucerfuls of secrets and endless noodling, but instead you will be surprised and delighted by the sheer quality of the songs, I would call it 60's/70's classic melodic rock played by prog quality musicians. They are far closer to Curved Air, mark 1 Deep Purple (with Evans and Simper) and The Doors than Pink Floyd, in fact at times I was half expecting the Lizard King to start mumbling about lighting fires and riders in storms. There are also echoes of great bands like Jefferson Airplane, Hawkwind, Love, Renaissance and Procol Harum. Charlotta has a stunning versatile voice that ranges from Carli Simon intimacy to Annie Haslam purity to Sonja Kristina exoticism to almost a Janis Joplin shriek, giving them a whole new dimension. Forget the sort of prog where the singer can go for a leisurely bath while the lads stretch out, Charlotta is at the heart of the music, and solos are concise, clever and constructive instrumental interludes rather than lengthy wig-outs. Opener 'Lost in Haze' lays down a funky rocking groove that they tease and toy with, taking it down to a Renaissance like jazzy swing before building it back up again, featuring a super JJ Burnel esque bass solo by Niklas Harju and Hawkwind swooshing space sounds that also crop up on the following moody and magnificent melodic rock song 'Parts'. The terrific twosome 'Caught in a Dream', with its superb Keith Emerson like Moog solo, and the rousing soaring 'Rainbow' then continue the classic retro rock vibe. The kooky 'Someone and Love', based around a catchy twangy Stratocaster and vocal “aah” refrain and an amazing Clare Torry like wailing crescendo, features Charlotta narrating a story that had me checking that she's not Anglo- American. Indeed, after the creepy Doors 'ish' instrumental 'Markens Grøde', the final track 'Vinden' is in their native language, proving that they are surprisingly from the west coast of Finland, not America. Guitarist Mathias Björk uses a range of acoustic and electric guitars, preferring the lighter Fender sound rather than the heavier Gibson, while organist/synthesist Tony Nyström sounds like an amalgam of Jon Lord, Richard Wright, Ray Manzarek and Matthew Fisher, ably assisted by violinist/pianist Pia Kurten and Tom Simell's snazzy jazzy drumming. If you told me that this was a long lost classic from The Summer Of Love and that the band had appeared at Woodstock I would believe you, especially after seeing the promo photo of them looking the part, but for the fact that it sounds too good, the excellent self production is most definitely 21st century. Their happening is going down here, and I really dig it, a groovy 9/10 (Phil)
R.D.S.K..'APOCALYPSE OF MIND' ALBUM/'GO AWAY' EP
(Cauldron Soundwerx) Reviewed 19th October 2011
Proving that, in JJ Burnel's immortal words, it's so nice in Nice comes this new band led by guitarist Demetrius and fronted by singer and pianist Pris. K, which, I cunningly deduce, is where they get their name, the 'S' being bassist Philippe Sovieri. They concoct in their cauldron a heady brew of melodic gothic rock/metal which is flavoured with melodic prog and classic rock, at times you will hear echoes of bands like The Reasoning, The Gathering, The Mission, The Stranglers, Paradise Lost and gothic era The Damned (that's a lot of the's!). They have a very British sound, which is unusual for a French band, perhaps its roots go back to the infamous riot by Stranglers fans at Nice University in 1980. Pris has a breathy voice that floats and soars hauntingly, giving an air of mystery to music that unites the rocking and the atmospheric, bridging the gap between rock and metal, combining chiming flanged gothic, crunchy rhythm and rock lead guitars. Excellent examples of this core style are 'Apocalypse of Mind','No Time Left' and 'Opus of Decadence' which glide elegantly from moody verses to powerful choruses. 'Lost Soul', sung by Demetrius, and 'Maze of Life' are more classic gothic rock, and 'Creatures' even heads towards early U2. The three more classic/prog melodic rock songs are the catchy 'Knights of Devotion' with it's Moog motif, the superb ballad 'Eyes Wide Open' and the piano infused symphonic 'Dark Angels'. Pris and Demetrius star in two instrumentals each, on the dramatic Damned like 'Priscum Demetrium Delirium' and 'Chiara la Napoletana' Pris's florid piano playing is like a cross between Matthew Bellamy's classical and Roman Jugg's gothic. Demetrius's dynamic violin features in the emotive 'Danse Macabre' and the album ends with his guitar shredding 'Demetrius March' which sounds like Kashmir being played by Metallica. Production is good and clear but the drum sound perhaps needs more oomph. Turning to their new EP, this has semi-acoustic Mostly Autumn esque classic rock versions four of these songs plus the title track 'Go Away'. Featuring the whole band, they bring out the beautiful melodies and highlight Pris's superb rippling piano playing and lovely voice. Highlights are the glorious version of 'Eyes Wide Open' (video on Female Voices blog) and the fantastic America 'ish' 'Go Away', please, please, let us have a full albums worth of these gorgeous songs. Two excellent releases from this French band that will appeal to both gothic and melodic rock fans alike, so march to their batcave and to their record company's site here. These decadent opuses deserve 8.75/10 for Apocalypse of Mind full length, and 9/10 for the 'Go Away' EP (Phil)
RHEIA..'FORGOTTEN GODS'
(iMusician Digital) Reviewed 14th October 2011
Rheia is the creation of Swiss song-writing sound engineer and keyboardist Pascale Peng. Over the course of a couple of years she gradually recorded these songs with a cast of carefully chosen musicians. The band name she has chosen is taken from the Greek goddess Rheia (or Rhea), the daughter of the Earth, who gave birth to the Greek Pantheon of gods, including the rulers of Heaven and Hell, Zeus and Hades. However, this is not an concept album, and the lyrics are about a wide variety of topics. The closest I can get to describing her totally unique but hugely appealing music is try imagining a touch of Within Temptation symphonic metal being propelled along by The Cars' driving rhythms, then add OMD's synths and pop sensibilities, and finally top with Nena on vocals to produce some of the most catchy and enjoyable songs you will hear all year, or any year come to that. The only bands that I can think of that are slightly similar are Weekend on Mars and Chapter II, coincidently both are from Switzerland, so it must be something in the fresh Alpine air. Pascale is not normally a singer and she enlisted the help of vocal coach Patrik Schwitter during the recordings, but she has bags of character and attitude which gives the songs their distinctive punky punch, reminding me of vocalists with personality like Hazel O'Connor, Toyah and Siouxsie Sioux, none of whom would qualify for X Factor, which is why the programme is about disposable pop rubbish and not artistic individuality. After the symphonic intro featuring a real orchestra comes the title track 'Forgotten Gods' sung by Andrea Dätwyler of Lunatica fame, setting the tone for the album - infectious, rocking, groovy, and with more hooks than the Chinese fishing fleet, attaching itself to your brain like a limpet with super-glue. Every song is a cracker, like the awesome synth driven 'Scorpions Revenge', 'Golden Gate' with its Vocoder refrain, the quirky 'Trying' with its amusing lyrics, 'Brothers' with its dramatic string quartet riff featuring a couple of angry barks by guest Raphael Hilfiker, the symphonic romp 'Confirmation' with top opera singer Margo Cadias, etc. etc. etc. Pascale will also soon release a completely orchestral version of the album. Production and sound as you would expect from a sound engineer is exemplary, with the finishing touches done by Simon Oberender who has worked with the likes of Lunatica, Avantasia and Epica. Rheia is one of those anomalies, a little known project that you would expect to be arty and obscure, but it turns out that this is an album that will appeal to anyone who likes intelligent but enormously catchy rock/metal. In fact it has a lot of commercial potential if it was given a good push in the right areas, and there's no reason why these songs cannot be played on mainstream rock radio stations. Her pantheon can be found at here, and it's currently availably digitally at a selection of stores, an unforgeable 9.25/10 (Phil)
REMEMBER to visit our comprehensive reviews storage library at Ravenheart Music Archived Reviews.
PURPLE NAIL...'NIGHT LIGHTS'
(Self Release) Reviewed 17th June 2013
Purple Nail come from Sweden, and I keep asking what the Scandinavians put in their water, as there seems to be a continuous stream of good music coming from those parts. Furthermore, having seen pictures of this band, they seem so young, they sure have the right image, but despite their apparent tender young years, they have produced an album of music that is so mature, enjoyable and catchy, that it had left me pressing the repeat button after the cd had finished. What we have here basically is 12 tracks of Melodic Gothic Rock and Metal that takes a mix of many bands from the female fronted scene and mixes it all up to give us the music of Purple Nail. Indeed, I do actually find the music on this record rather unique, with the vocals of the lovely Lady Crow angelic bordering on the operatic at times, but without overdoing the operatics if that makes sense. Without going into track by track by detail, this release is totally awesome with standout numbers to my ears being 'Bring Me Down', 'Not Afraid' and the single 'Blood Tonight'. But to be honest, they are all good, and I would like to state that this is a very good effort from this band. Their website is www.thepurplenail.com, and I must say that Purple Nail are well worth checking out, so go and buy their music and support a hard working independent band - awesome! 8.75/10 (Dave)
PARAMORE...'PARAMORE'
(Atlantic Records) Reviewed 4th June 2013
Paramore are back with their 4th studio release and the 1st without founder members Zac (drums) and Josh Farro (guitar). Formed in 2004, the band currently consists of lead vocalist Hayley Williams, bassist Jeremy Davis, and guitarist Taylor York. But without the Farro brothers, who were the primary source of Paramore’s songwriting team, the band I must say has released a solid and very addictive record here, with song writing duties now taken over by Hayley Williams and Taylor York. Track after track (and there are 17 of them) hit the right button being full of commercial pop/rock appeal, just like their previous releases. As I say, there are 17 numbers although three of them are just short ukulele inspired 'interludes', but overall, this is a very good and mature record from this young band. There are plenty of stand out tracks like the opener 'Fast In My Car', the catchy 'Ain't It Fun' (which is such a blast!), the awesome 'Last Hope', the bouncy and catchy '(One of Those) Crazy Days' and the punk feel of 'Be Alone'. The closing number 'Future' is a great track to close the album that starts acoustically and then explodes into a guitar/synths frenzy. I have read that the Farro brothers left because they claimed that the band was "a manufactured product of a major-label." They further accused Hayley Williams of being manipulated by her management, treating the rest of the group as her solo project, and claimed she was the only member of the band who was signed to Atlantic Records. But who effectively cares when it is this good! 8.5/10 (Dave)
ROBYN...'DESIRE'
(Self Released) Reviewed 10th December 2012
This 8 track 30 minute album is as far as I am aware the second release from songstress Robyn, her previous offering 'Who I Am' being released in 2006. 'Desire' is full of delightful pop/rock songs, the occasional heart felt ballad, coupled with an acoustic flavour that pops up on some numbers. Great stuff and I would say this release would please fans of Heart, Melissa Etheridge and Sheryl Crow. The record is available from cdbaby, and is worth checking out if you prefer your music on the lightweight side. This is her website, so why not pay her a visit..8/10 (Dave)
RIVERLUST...'INNOCENCE'
(Self Release) Reviewed 23rd October 2012
Riverlust hail from Hungary, and this 6 track EP of epic Symphonic Power Metal is a must for fans of the genre. What I like about this style of music from these Hungarians, is the vocals from Zsizsu are not necessarily Symphonic, but are more akin to a Pop/Rock style. As I previously mention, there are six numbers here, with the EP kicking off with a brief instrumental before the whole affair kicks in good and proper - upbeat Power Metal from 'Edge of Innocence' through to closer 'Passage'. The EP can be downloaded from their FACEBOOK so what are you waiting for - good stuff! 8.75/10 (Dave)
REVOLVING DOOR...'MILK AND HONEY'
(Fastball Music) Reviewed 23rd October 2012
If Paramore or In This Moment (without the screaming) excites you, then check this lot out from Germany. The band was founded in 2004, and since 2006 they have performed over 350 gigs and they play every year around 50 to 70 concerts. So they are not novices by any means, even though I admit I have never heard of them before - shame on me. What this band fronted by Liesa offer up here are 12 up tempo catchy rock numbers, well influenced by the current modern rock and metal scene. This is a no filler all killer album running in at around 43 minutes, and will be well worthy of the purchase price when it gets released on the 26th October. Check the band out here ...this is pretty damn good! 8.75/10 (Dave)
RAVENLAND...'NEVERMORE'
(Self Released) Reviewed 16th October 2012
This little EP has two new tracks from the awesome Brazilian band Ravenland. And upon listening to what I have here, I detect that this band is certainly moving forward leaps and bounds from their previous full length offering, which in itself was damn good! Ravenland keep the dual vocal attack of Dewindson Wolfheart together with new vocalist Juliana Rossi, and I like what I hear. The title track and single is a good un, with Dewindson's vocals making an immediate impression, but it is the second track 'Sad Afternoon' that screams airplay and has a certain shall we say commercial appeal about it - I like it. It is difficult to score a two track EP, but a full length album based on what I have heard here, I am sure will be awesome! Check the band's music out including these two tracks here. (Dave)
RISE OF AVERNUS...S'T EP
(Self Release) Reviewed 23rd August 2012
RISE OF AVERNUS is a progressive doom metal five piece from Sydney, Australia. The brainchild of guitarist / vocalist Ben Vanvollenhoven (Ex-STODOWA) and vocalist / keyboardist, Catherine Guirguis (KATABASIS, Ex-BLACK HORIZON), the music is based around the incongruent, yet complimentary combination of Guirguis’ classically inspired piano melodies and Vanvollenhoven’s monolithic riffs. Through their duelling vocal personas, Catherine and Ben explore dark poignant themes, with impassioned arrangements and a unique down tempo theatricality. There are three tracks on this rather good EP that will sweep you on an atmospheric journey of enchanting sombre beauty and crushing metal crescendos. It is a kinda mish mash of Paradise Lost meets Draconian meets Lacuna Coil, although I am sure listeners will conceive their own ideas. The epic and awesome 8 minute plus number 'Beneath the Frozen Hand of Time', also features vocal contributions from Marc Grewe, front man of the legendary German death metal group MORGOTH, and his contribution compliments the track very well. RISE OF AVERNUS weave an atmospheric journey that sweeps the listener into a rapture of enchanting sombre beauty and crushing metal crescendos and they are well worth checking out HERE...8.5/10 (Dave)
RESILIENCE...'BIRTH'
(Self Release) Reviewed 31st July 2012
Resilience is a project formed in France in 2004 by guitarist Benjamin Sertelon and gorgeous Adeline Gurtner, who we last met as lead singer of Akin, whose wonderful album 'The Way Things End' I reviewed last year. The title comes from when Adeline left Akin in 2004 in difficult circumstances, and the resilience she showed, it was only recently that the band members reconciled their differences and reformed to produce that album. Their melodic prog rock/metal falls in the same general area as Wedingoth, Delusion Squared, The Gathering, The Reasoning, Pulse of Reason and Touchstone, but there is a distinctive slant, more of which later. Their music is powered along by Ben's driving guitars, laid on beds of bubbling Jean Michel Jarre esque sequencers and synths, and topped by Adeline's superb expressive voice. The introduction 'Introspection' sounds like one of those self hypnosis relaxation tapes.................... sorry, where was I, ah yes, which is followed by a trio of more conventional concise songs that that really rock along. Now things become interesting as they begin to show their prog credentials with their first multi-faceted epic, 'Finally Be Me', then 'The Edge of the Abyss Inside' that really steams along, and the delicate reflective 'Let Him Fly'. The next song ‘The Fall’ has what appears at first to be a real curve ball, as they throw in some Beyoncé style R&B, as you do, and why not, it's bootyliscous. However, there is a catchy pop soul R&B undercurrent that surfaces throughout the album, but here's it's highlighted. 'In The Hurry' really grooves and funks before none other than Daniel Gildenlöw (Pain of Salvation) takes the mike for 'Introspection 2.0' that heads towards The Foo Fighters mixed with Ayreon. Finally, the pulsating 'Threat' and their second awesome epic 'Rewind' feature all their influences from pop soul r&b to electronica to melodic prog metal. Ben and Adeline have produced a smart, sophisticated and stylish album that can take prog into new trendy territory, far removed from from it's 60's beards and kaftans origins. In fact 'The Fall' (without its electronica second part) and 'In The Hurry' have real single potential. J-set your way to their Facebook, a brilliant, resilient 9/10 (Phil)
REIGN OF THOUGHT...'BEGINNING OF THE END'
(Self Release) Reviewed 28th June 2012
Reign of Thought are a new prog metal band for Albany, in the Big Apple, founded by guitarists Matt Becker and Aeron Yerdon, with Shanna Becker on vocals who also supplies the keys and violin. Their music is in the same Central Park as a less technical Akribi, Tool and To Mera, with some alt-metal thrown into the mix à la Edenial, with Shanna's vocals veering towards the more European semi-operatic style away from typical American alt-metal wailers. They present on their début a set of consistent numbers based around jagged staccato riffing, with Shanna's expressive voice carrying the melody. I particularly like the more symphonic power metal 'Reality and the Dream', the Spanish jazzy flavoured 'When Daylight Ends', and the tasty guitar in the subtler 'In My Head'. American bands seem reluctant to use keys, an important ingredient in prog, perhaps it's not considered 'cool' and 'metal', the interlude and her occasional embellishments show that Shanna is a talented keyboardist, I wish they had used them more to add variety and richness to the well produced sound, and her violin only features very briefly, which seems a shame. A good solid prog metal album from a band that has tremendous untapped potential. Their throne can be found here, a thoughtful 8.25/10 (Phil)
phoenix/NEBULIN...'VITAE'
(Electric Halo Records) Reviewed 26th June 2010
What a corker we have from these rockers from Miami in Florida. This I understand is their third release of original material (there was a remix and covers album released in 2009), their previous original album being 'Meridian' being back in 2006. Basically the band was conceived shortly after the marriage of vocalist Phoenix and drummer/songwriter/producer Armando back in 2001. In October 2003 their debut full length album titled 'Distanza' was released, and in November 2006 phoenix/NEBULIN released their sophomore album 'Merdian'. On this album the band’s sound took a heavier hard rock approach. And that hard rock approach with electro influences is strongly apparent on this album. What we have here is 11 tracks of catchy hard rock with those aforementioned electro influences...totally great stuff from the band - music that will bang around in your head for ages after the cd has come off the player. Take 'Bleeding On The Inside' and the rocking 'Irreverence' as two such tracks, so so catchy!! I hear Nine Inch Nails, Evanescence and even possibly electro period Theatre of Tragedy on this album and I am highly impressed with what I hear. Every track is a humdinger and this band deserves attention from the female fronted rock and metal fan. On this album, phoenix/NEBULIN has elevated their sound to a new level taking musical and technical inspiration from various giants of the industry. Check them out here, whilst I well recommend this!...9.25/10 (Dave)
RAVENSCRY...'ACOUSTIC PARENTHIS OF A DREAM STATE' EP
(Self Released) Reviewed 25th May 2012
Italian Band Ravenscry have given us an EP of 4 acoustic workings of numbers that appeared on their debut 'One Way Out' album, that picked up a 9/10 review last May (doesn't time fly?). The main feature with this cd, as with their debut full length offering is the vocals of leading lady Angela Fagiuoli, that are simply awesome, and take this music onto another level. Anybody who has 'One Way Out' in their cd collection, will be familiar with the songs here, anybody who is just curious, well maybe I would advise to go all out and purchase the band's debut cd. Having said that, this EP is a very useful acoustic introduction to the band. Pop to their Myspace here..8/10 (Dave)
REASONS BEHIND...'OUVERTURE' EP
(Self Release) Reviewed 8th May 2012
Born from the ashes of a gothic metal cover band (After Forever, Within Temptation, Nightwish), Reasons Behind is a power - prog - symphonic metal band from Italy, fronted by the lovely Elisa. I suppose to be honest, for anybody that misses Tarja era Nightwish, Reasons Behind could be the band to satisfy your appetite. Indeed, anyone who likes the bands mentioned above, this should be right up your alleyway, although the Nightwish influences shine through the strongest. Opener 'The End Of Our Chapter' certainly has that Nightwish feel with the operatic vocals of Ely from the top drawer of Operatic Metal. Great instrumentation and musicianship coming to the fore on this opener. 'My Last Act' carries on where the opener left off, and the strong Nightwish theme continues with '1000 Fading Lives', a great thumping Symphonic rocker with a further awesome vocal contribution from Ely. 'Choices' has a great instrumental intro and is possibly one of my fave tracks on this EP, while the slower and emotional 'The Last Night Of Ilion' finishes of this mighty EP. To finalise, if this band were to record a full length album of the quality we have here, it would be mightily good. Okay, they will be compared to Nightwish, but so what! Check them out here - recommended!! ...8.75/10 (Dave)
PERPETUATE..S/T CD
(Self Released) Reviewed May 1st 2012
Let us loosely imagine a mix of Evanescence and Iron Maiden, and if this was to get you a little excited, then maybe the Canadian band Perpetuate will be right up your alleyway. Featuring some wild lead guitar from James Hush and Chris Rafinski, plus the awesome vocals of keyboardist Kim McInnis, this 7 track offering from the band featuring 5 original songs (my copy is graced with a bonus track) is an epic affair, which also features a cover of the Iron Maiden Classic 'The Trooper'. Great Power Metal within the seven tracks here with a progressive undercurrent, Kims vocals swaying between those of a powerful Rock Goddess to those of an Operatic Angel, and ably backed up by the band I hasten to add. There is no let up from the powerful opener 'Above and Beyond' to the closing duo of the aforementioned 'The Trooper' and the additional bonus song 'Black Velvet', originally recorded by Alannah Myles. I would certainly recommend checking this band out further, so why not start at their website here... 8.5/10 (Dave)
ROMEO'S DAUGHTER....'RAPTURE'
(RD Records) Reviewed 25th April 2012
Here we have an album from a band that hail back to the late 80s'. Their debut was partly produced by 'Mutt' Lange (who also worked with Def Leppard) and partly by John Parr (St. Elmo's Fire). It presented a melodic AOR style with refreshing originality. Their second album 'Delectable' from 1992, did not quite hit the spot to my ears anyway of the S/T debut, but was and still is worth checking out nonetheless. So what about this newie from Leigh Matty and the band. It to my ears is a stunning return, with opener 'Trippin' Out' a stunning track with an anthemic chorus and a strong melody. 'Bittersweet' follows and almost has a country feel to it, but still with a hideously catchy chrous. 'Cannot Be The One' is a mid paced number, and proves that vocally, Leigh remains on top form, ably backed up by the band. An admirable opening threesome to this record I must admit, while the whole album continues in a similar vein, with some catchy and melodic tunes, and slower ballad type numbers. Okay, they may not offer the in yer face melodic rock assault of the debut, but this is awesome stuff full of catchy guitar based Melodic Rock goodness. Any fan of Heart and FM (amongst others of the AOR/Melodic Rock genre) should get this album and appreciate what it has to offer. An impressive return from a band who have been away for around 18 years...9/10 (Dave)
RIZON...'MASQUERADE'
(Karthago) Reviewed 20th April 2012
As befits their name, Swiss band Rizon have been on the rise through their 2005 début Evolution and the 2008 follow up Sudden Life (my review is in the archives). This new album sees a significant increase in power, with their Sonata Arctica / Statovarius esque powerful melodic metal fittingly mixed in Finland by Nino Laurenne (guitarist wth Thunderstone) in the equally appropriately named Sonic Pump Studios, they have really pumped up the sonic output. Leading out front is the perfectly matched dual vocal attack of Matthias Götz and scintillating Seraina, sounding like Tony Kakko and Doro as they trade verses and bridges, then belt out the choruses together. Opening power metaller 'High Flyer' throws down the gauntlet as they rip through a classic collection of high octane humongous rockers all equipped with immense choruses that you will be singing for weeks, but with enough variety to stop it becoming tiring, an important factor in an album with 13 tracks weighing in at a whopping 72 minutes. You will discover songs like the title track 'Masquerade' with its burst of blues, the awesome swaying anthem 'Tears of the Sun' (video on Female Voices), the dramatic 'Remotion' that takes off into the stratosphere, if they went any higher they would break orbit, the rousing eastern infused 'Same Same', the mega power ballad 'Cold Winters Night', the superb multi-faceted prog tinged 'Lost in Silence', and they finally let their hair down with the party song 'Bells' which humorously compares one of the band's choices of music, Iron Maiden, to that of his girlfriend, The Bee Gees. There are a couple of tracks from their début album that have been rerecorded by special request, the stomping Spanish 'El Dios', originally just a bonus track it has become a big favourite, written in Spanish by Matt because, in his own words, “"Soy el Dios de la noche" sounded better to my ears than "I'm the Lord of the night"”, and a new version of the epic 'Out of Nowhere' which was chosen by their fans. Rizon perform songs that in lesser hands would be good catchy melodic metal numbers, but the sophistication of their songwriting, premier league sound and musicianship that even the most ardent of prog fans will admire lifts them onto a different level. In a nutshell, this is top quality metal. Their masquerade awaits you at here, a rising 8.75 /10 (Phil)
RIFF X...'SEARCH FOR A BETTER DAY' EP
(Self Released - digital) Reviewed 11th April 2012
Let's get ready to rock and punch the air! Riff X hail from Newcastle, and I can say for a fact that this band rock, not only on cd but live too. This EP is their second EP release to my knowledge, and offers up three tracks of riff tastic rockin' tunes. The chorus on opener 'Search For A Better Day' will stick in your head and not go away, while 'Yesterday Is Dead' is a live favourite with another deadly fist thumping chorus. 'Don't Lie' is a 2012 rendition of a track that first appeared on their 'Bruises' EP from last year, and I know for a fact that this is also a live fave! A band like Riff X cannot and must not be allowed to go un-noticed. Their Facebook page is here, and the EP can be purchased from iTunes - recommended...8.5/10 (Dave)
RISING SUNSET..'EQUINOX'
(Self Release) Reviewed 30th March 2012
This Maltese band were formed way back in 2001 by guitarists Carlo Calamatta and Mario Camilleri Brennan and opera singer Christa Calamatta, releasing an EP 'Rhema' in 2005, but this is their long awaited début album. Their style is an amalgam of lively uplifting galloping gothic/power/folk/traditional opera metal, a mix of bands like Evil's Desire, Avariel, Cassandra Syndrome, Adrana and At The Lake, producing these seven historical epics, all beautifully illustrated in the booklet, and the instrumental wig-out 'Opus VII'. Christa Calamatta has a good operatic voice with a distinctive trill, and she tells the tale of the various legends in the style of a medieval singing storytelling troubadour. Fine examples include my favourite song 'Emperor of the North' which tells of King Canute who famously tried too turn back the tide, not out of arrogance as is commonly believed, but to prove to his sycophant couriers than he was not superhuman, just a wise king. Christ's sacrifice is the subject of 'Crux Sacra Sit Mihi Lux' (be the holy cross be my light), 'Immortal Devotion' is about the Egyptian legend of Osiris, and 'Parousia', probably my other favourite song, is based on the Greek New Testament's prophecy of the second coming, it all creates fascinating lyrical concepts. The original intention was to have a third guitarist, an idea pinched by Iron Maiden, but now they have violinist Oriella Casha harmonising with the guitars and forming a key component of their sound. Production has a live feel, as if the band are playing in your front room through a top quality PA system with the band dead tight, the product of years practising together, but perhaps some extra keyboards or orchestrations would have made it more grandly symphonic. There are some concerns about the pitch nuances of Oriella's violin, maybe some vibrato would soften and sweeten it, however she will grow into her instrument. A fine album for fans of operatic traditional and power metal. Their website is here, a rising 8.5/10 (Phil)
PSIDERALICA..'NEOPHOBIA'
(Team 33/Electric Chair Music) Reviewed 29th March 2012
Founded in 2002 by guitarist Toni Kernel and fronted by Toni's wife Lady Marian, Spanish band Psideralica offer up 11 tracks of Pop/Metal with an Industrial undercurrent. On this album, we hear metal guitars and synthesizers blending in with the enchanting voice of Lady Marian, who walks along the commercial pop and melodic dark metal walkway, with influences as diverse as Nine Inch Nails or Rammstein, to Madonna and Rihanna. Yep, and it works, and works very well indeed. There are some rather awesome catchy numbers here, the opening salvo of 'Fight' and 'My Toy' sets the scene rather nicely, and the pop vocals of Lady Marian seem to add a sensuality to proceedings. I am actually finding it very hard to fault this album. Okay, it may not directly appeal to the in yer face metalhead out there, but if you can imagine Rihanna fronting a metal band singing some hideously commercial pop-metal tunes, that will just about sum it up. Listen to the track 'Tonight' and I challenge you to keep still, but having said that, the whole album is a foot tapper!! I think this cd has been available for a few months now, but I do whole heartedly recommend this. This is their Facebook...9/10 (Dave)
RabieS..'DROP IN THE INFINITE'
(Fono) Reviewed 28th March 2012
This Russian symphonic formation were first formed by opera singer vivacious Vladislava Soloviev in 2006, initially to do Nightwish covers. They then started developing their own style and songs but many line-up changes and problems halted their progress until they recorded this début album at the Kranets Studios in Ufa last year. Although it has taken years for their endeavours to come to fruition, they have taken the philosophical view that it is just a brief moment in the history of time, hence the album title, 'A Drop in the Infinite'. They take their strange name from the original Latin definition which is 'fury', although this meaning is still rather odd for their style of music, it is certainly better than the modern one, perhaps they are unaware of what it now means, but be careful you don't go into your local record store and say “excuse me, have you got RabieS?”, you might get a punch on the nose! I have done my best to translate the song titles, but had to mangle them through Google translate, so happened anything have could. Their style is light lively romantic symphonic gothic metal with touches of rock and power metal featuring Vladoslava's superb authentic operatic voice with a warm vibrato and rolling R's, it's obvious that she is classically highly trained, which makes them rather unusual as most opera singers are with power metal bands, making them akin to a lighter version of a band like Silent Opera. The excellent sound by Alexander Pstyga is clean and crisp, nice warm fuzzy rhythm guitars, singing leads, super keys, and bouncing drums, with mastering at the world famous Finnvox Studio in Finland. Keys player Edauard Korshunov does a few low Russian style growls, but nothing to worry about. You get eight concise epics with the piano and string quartet instrumental 'Soot (Fog to Dusk)' acting as a delightful coda. Notable features include the dramatic 'The Return' (video on Female Voices), the catchy 'Wings', the anthemic 'The Duel', the romantic swaying ballad 'I'm Leaving', and the rocking bouncing 'Enough' with its super keys/guitar duet. The album is a bit on the short side, but it's quality, not quantity. A most enjoyable and easy to listen to album for anyone who loves light symphonic metal, their ReverbNation is here, and VK, is here, so before I go and get my nose straightened, I will give them an infinitely enjoyable 8.5 /10 (Phil)
SONJA PERENDA..'TIME HAS COME'
(Self Release) Reviewed 9th March 2012
Sonja from Austria is a fascinating and remarkable person, not only has she trained as an opera singer but she is also a lawyer who wants to help people who have fallen on hard times or ended up on the wrong side of the law. She has played concerts all over the world, including to UN soldiers in Kosovo and Syria, and like a modern day Johnny Cash, she has even performed at jails and to homeless people all over Austria and Germany. In her own words, “Thanks to my second profession I definitely know that there is no clear border between 'good and evil'. No black and white here, but a million shades of grey. In this spirit: Let's rock the jail!!”. On this album her music is perhaps best described as Tarja meets melodic heavy rock, featuring Sonja's lovely light mezzo-soprano voice. Although all the songs sound like familiar classics, they are are in fact all original songs written by a variety of songwriters, including some co-written by Sonja, and all done in her own inimitable symphonic rock/metal style. She is not out to reinvent the wheel, simply to give you a jolly good time. I am not going to say what band each song sounds like because I'll be scratching my head until my bald patch turns into a field, suffice to say you will be shouting “that reminds me of what's their name”, just think Kiss, Rainbow, Queen, The Bangles, that sort of area. Favourites include the classic metal 'Judgement Day', the catchy 'Victim of a Miracle' that I will guarantee you will be singing next day, the classic lighter waving ballad 'Voice of Peace', the infectious pop rock 'Whole Again', the grand symphonic rock 'You Had It All' and the final epic duet with Omri Lahav 'Ray of Hope', even the titles sound classic. Because there are so many producers the sound quality does vary from the excellent to the reasonable, perhaps it could do with a mastermind to get everything at a consistent standard. The jury have retired to give their verdict, after much deliberation they have decided that this is a hugely entertaining and enjoyable collection that will hold any melodic heavy rock fan captive. Her chambers can be found here, a jailhouse rocking 8.5/10 (Phil)
PYTHIA..'THE SERPENT'S CURSE'
(Golden Axe/Universal) Reviewed 13th February 2012
The UK's leading Female Fronted Warriors Pythia's (pronounced pie-thee-ya) debut album 'Beneath The Veiled Embrace', certainly caused some waves amongst the female fronted metal fraternity. Fronted by Emily Alice Ovenden, who is also a novelist and member of the number one selling act Mediaeval Babes, Pythia was formed in 2007, and were brought together by their love of Fantasy and Gothic imagery. Indeed, Emily Alice grew up in a mock Gothic Castle in Cornwall, and began singing and writing ghost stories from an early age. The aforementioned themes and imagery that she grew up with have strongly influenced her song writing, and this is apparent in the music the band records. Anyway, what about the follow up album? Well for a start, it if ain't broken, why fix it? strongly applies here. And in this album, they have produced what to my ears is another metal masterpiece that will make the world sit up and listen (that is if they didn't after their debut release). In typical Pythia tradition, the Symphonic elements are there, Melody is there, and the vocals of Emily are simply stunning!! The album starts with 'Cry of our Nation' which is a great melodic power metal number, while next up 'Betray My Heart' is the single and another great powerful track to sink your teeth into. 'Kissing The Knife' slows it down just a little and is a great number, but generally, the pace does not really slacken, with other awesome tracks like 'Just A Lie', the slower 'Dark Star', the rather catchy 'Long Live The King', the Dark and Gothy 'My Perfect Enemy' and the awesome closing track 'Our Forgotten Land'. To my ears, this album would be classed as slightly heavier than the band's debut, and long may it continue, as Pythia look set to be around for some while yet. They may perhaps be likened to Tarja era Nightwish, but let us get this straight, they certainly do not copy or clone anyone. This is dynamic, epic and bombastic stuff within all the 10 tracks on this record, great all round musicianship from all involved and well worthy of a 9.5/10 (Dave)
ROUGE..EP
(Self Released) Reviewed 16th December 2011
Born and raised in 2011 with great love and care by three men and their frontwoman, Dutch band ROUGE bring us a three track EP that delivers a strong mix of modern american rock, sweet pop harmonies and a touch of electronic music with high energy performances, a sexy bite and a pinch of heaviness. They rock with style! Just like the lemon after your tequila! 'On A Ride (All Summer Long)' is the kinda track you wanna hear while riding along the highway with the sunroof down and the warm summer wind blowing through your hair. 'Innocent' kinda reminds me of Paramore on a good day, with male vocals similar (just a little!) to those on 'Going Under' by Evanescence, while 'Opposite Directions' screams hit single. To be honest, there is a lot on offer here that suggests this band could quite easily cross over into the mainstream with the correct backing. Check them out here and support good independent music. 8.5/10 (Dave)
RAVEN TIDE..'ECHOES OF WONDER'
(Alkemist Fanatix Europe) Reviewed 12th December 2011
'Echoes of Wonder' is an awesome Melodic Gothic Album that so happens to be right up my alleyway. And the band responsible for this little epic is Raven Tide and they hail from Italy. It seems for sure that Italy is becoming very much the hot bed of Female Fronted Rock and Metal. The melodic and angelic vocals of Carlotta "Cheryl" Cimeli so happen to be the jewels on this cd, that really do make it plain to me as to why I like this genre of music so much. Ten tracks of music that for anybody that seeks a catchy chorus, they will just love this release - just listen to 'Doom Reviel' and you may well get my meaning. I love this album from opener 'Oblivion' to closer 'End To The Flame', and this will certainly appeal to the Dama, Evanescence and Elysion fans out there amongst many others no doubt. And we have a ballad and a cover, 'Frail' is a massive piano led ballad, while 'Frozen' is the Madonna song with some lush orchestration. I whole heartedly recommend this release to anyone out there into Female Fronted music that is melodic, catchy and offers up some pretty cool orchestration. Try it for yourself, why not check them out here first, I am sure you won't be disappointed ...9/10 (Dave)
PRIMER..3 Track Promo
(Self Released) Reviewed 11th November 2011
Primer is a local band to where I live, hailing from The West Midlands here in the UK. They offer up a style of hard rock and metal with Claire's Celtic style vocals mixing it very well with the heavy guitars and intense rhythm section. Indeed, in opener and live favourite 'Water', her vocals remind me a little of Sinéad O'Connor. There are three rockin' tracks on this promo cd, with closer 'I Am Anger' one of the more commercial offerings. I must say that having seen this band live on more than one occasion, they rock, and they are a hard working combo too. And the drummer Neel 'The Asian Sensation' Parmar by the way is a total nutcase, in a nice and likeable sort of way of course. Check the band out here, 8.5/10 (Dave)
PORCELAIN MOON..'...AS IT WERE. HERE AND THERE'
(Musea Parallele) Reviewed 31st October 2011
This album was originally self released under the name Porcelain, without the Moon, in 2009, but has now received worldwide release on the French label Musea, this new era signalled with an expanded name. They were formed in Finland in 2005 by a bunch of progsters who all shared a common interest in Pink Floyd, after a while they realised that it was a good idea to have a singer, so Charlotta Kerbs was brought into the fold. After reading this you are probably, like me, expecting saucerfuls of secrets and endless noodling, but instead you will be surprised and delighted by the sheer quality of the songs, I would call it 60's/70's classic melodic rock played by prog quality musicians. They are far closer to Curved Air, mark 1 Deep Purple (with Evans and Simper) and The Doors than Pink Floyd, in fact at times I was half expecting the Lizard King to start mumbling about lighting fires and riders in storms. There are also echoes of great bands like Jefferson Airplane, Hawkwind, Love, Renaissance and Procol Harum. Charlotta has a stunning versatile voice that ranges from Carli Simon intimacy to Annie Haslam purity to Sonja Kristina exoticism to almost a Janis Joplin shriek, giving them a whole new dimension. Forget the sort of prog where the singer can go for a leisurely bath while the lads stretch out, Charlotta is at the heart of the music, and solos are concise, clever and constructive instrumental interludes rather than lengthy wig-outs. Opener 'Lost in Haze' lays down a funky rocking groove that they tease and toy with, taking it down to a Renaissance like jazzy swing before building it back up again, featuring a super JJ Burnel esque bass solo by Niklas Harju and Hawkwind swooshing space sounds that also crop up on the following moody and magnificent melodic rock song 'Parts'. The terrific twosome 'Caught in a Dream', with its superb Keith Emerson like Moog solo, and the rousing soaring 'Rainbow' then continue the classic retro rock vibe. The kooky 'Someone and Love', based around a catchy twangy Stratocaster and vocal “aah” refrain and an amazing Clare Torry like wailing crescendo, features Charlotta narrating a story that had me checking that she's not Anglo- American. Indeed, after the creepy Doors 'ish' instrumental 'Markens Grøde', the final track 'Vinden' is in their native language, proving that they are surprisingly from the west coast of Finland, not America. Guitarist Mathias Björk uses a range of acoustic and electric guitars, preferring the lighter Fender sound rather than the heavier Gibson, while organist/synthesist Tony Nyström sounds like an amalgam of Jon Lord, Richard Wright, Ray Manzarek and Matthew Fisher, ably assisted by violinist/pianist Pia Kurten and Tom Simell's snazzy jazzy drumming. If you told me that this was a long lost classic from The Summer Of Love and that the band had appeared at Woodstock I would believe you, especially after seeing the promo photo of them looking the part, but for the fact that it sounds too good, the excellent self production is most definitely 21st century. Their happening is going down here, and I really dig it, a groovy 9/10 (Phil)
R.D.S.K..'APOCALYPSE OF MIND' ALBUM/'GO AWAY' EP
(Cauldron Soundwerx) Reviewed 19th October 2011
Proving that, in JJ Burnel's immortal words, it's so nice in Nice comes this new band led by guitarist Demetrius and fronted by singer and pianist Pris. K, which, I cunningly deduce, is where they get their name, the 'S' being bassist Philippe Sovieri. They concoct in their cauldron a heady brew of melodic gothic rock/metal which is flavoured with melodic prog and classic rock, at times you will hear echoes of bands like The Reasoning, The Gathering, The Mission, The Stranglers, Paradise Lost and gothic era The Damned (that's a lot of the's!). They have a very British sound, which is unusual for a French band, perhaps its roots go back to the infamous riot by Stranglers fans at Nice University in 1980. Pris has a breathy voice that floats and soars hauntingly, giving an air of mystery to music that unites the rocking and the atmospheric, bridging the gap between rock and metal, combining chiming flanged gothic, crunchy rhythm and rock lead guitars. Excellent examples of this core style are 'Apocalypse of Mind','No Time Left' and 'Opus of Decadence' which glide elegantly from moody verses to powerful choruses. 'Lost Soul', sung by Demetrius, and 'Maze of Life' are more classic gothic rock, and 'Creatures' even heads towards early U2. The three more classic/prog melodic rock songs are the catchy 'Knights of Devotion' with it's Moog motif, the superb ballad 'Eyes Wide Open' and the piano infused symphonic 'Dark Angels'. Pris and Demetrius star in two instrumentals each, on the dramatic Damned like 'Priscum Demetrium Delirium' and 'Chiara la Napoletana' Pris's florid piano playing is like a cross between Matthew Bellamy's classical and Roman Jugg's gothic. Demetrius's dynamic violin features in the emotive 'Danse Macabre' and the album ends with his guitar shredding 'Demetrius March' which sounds like Kashmir being played by Metallica. Production is good and clear but the drum sound perhaps needs more oomph. Turning to their new EP, this has semi-acoustic Mostly Autumn esque classic rock versions four of these songs plus the title track 'Go Away'. Featuring the whole band, they bring out the beautiful melodies and highlight Pris's superb rippling piano playing and lovely voice. Highlights are the glorious version of 'Eyes Wide Open' (video on Female Voices blog) and the fantastic America 'ish' 'Go Away', please, please, let us have a full albums worth of these gorgeous songs. Two excellent releases from this French band that will appeal to both gothic and melodic rock fans alike, so march to their batcave and to their record company's site here. These decadent opuses deserve 8.75/10 for Apocalypse of Mind full length, and 9/10 for the 'Go Away' EP (Phil)
RHEIA..'FORGOTTEN GODS'
(iMusician Digital) Reviewed 14th October 2011
Rheia is the creation of Swiss song-writing sound engineer and keyboardist Pascale Peng. Over the course of a couple of years she gradually recorded these songs with a cast of carefully chosen musicians. The band name she has chosen is taken from the Greek goddess Rheia (or Rhea), the daughter of the Earth, who gave birth to the Greek Pantheon of gods, including the rulers of Heaven and Hell, Zeus and Hades. However, this is not an concept album, and the lyrics are about a wide variety of topics. The closest I can get to describing her totally unique but hugely appealing music is try imagining a touch of Within Temptation symphonic metal being propelled along by The Cars' driving rhythms, then add OMD's synths and pop sensibilities, and finally top with Nena on vocals to produce some of the most catchy and enjoyable songs you will hear all year, or any year come to that. The only bands that I can think of that are slightly similar are Weekend on Mars and Chapter II, coincidently both are from Switzerland, so it must be something in the fresh Alpine air. Pascale is not normally a singer and she enlisted the help of vocal coach Patrik Schwitter during the recordings, but she has bags of character and attitude which gives the songs their distinctive punky punch, reminding me of vocalists with personality like Hazel O'Connor, Toyah and Siouxsie Sioux, none of whom would qualify for X Factor, which is why the programme is about disposable pop rubbish and not artistic individuality. After the symphonic intro featuring a real orchestra comes the title track 'Forgotten Gods' sung by Andrea Dätwyler of Lunatica fame, setting the tone for the album - infectious, rocking, groovy, and with more hooks than the Chinese fishing fleet, attaching itself to your brain like a limpet with super-glue. Every song is a cracker, like the awesome synth driven 'Scorpions Revenge', 'Golden Gate' with its Vocoder refrain, the quirky 'Trying' with its amusing lyrics, 'Brothers' with its dramatic string quartet riff featuring a couple of angry barks by guest Raphael Hilfiker, the symphonic romp 'Confirmation' with top opera singer Margo Cadias, etc. etc. etc. Pascale will also soon release a completely orchestral version of the album. Production and sound as you would expect from a sound engineer is exemplary, with the finishing touches done by Simon Oberender who has worked with the likes of Lunatica, Avantasia and Epica. Rheia is one of those anomalies, a little known project that you would expect to be arty and obscure, but it turns out that this is an album that will appeal to anyone who likes intelligent but enormously catchy rock/metal. In fact it has a lot of commercial potential if it was given a good push in the right areas, and there's no reason why these songs cannot be played on mainstream rock radio stations. Her pantheon can be found at here, and it's currently availably digitally at a selection of stores, an unforgeable 9.25/10 (Phil)
REMEMBER to visit our comprehensive reviews storage library at Ravenheart Music Archived Reviews.