Ravenheart Music: Album Reviews
REVIEWS P-R
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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)
PERGANA..'THE MIRROR OF SILENCE' EP
(Self Release) Reviewed 10th October 2011
Here we have another band that is trying hard to set the Female Fronted Symphonic Gothic Scene alight. Pergana fronted by French girl Audrey Laure, feature musicians from France, Paraguay and Germany, and was recommended to me via Facebook by a young lass, Heather Miley. The German connection is interesting, as the musicians involved are the Holzwarth brothers, drummer Alex (RHAPSODY OF FIRE) and bassist Oliver (TARJA TURUNEN, BLIND GUARDIAN, etc.), who guest on this cd. So for starters, that may give you an idea the direction this band is travelling in. Four tracks on this EP of high octane Melodic Symphonic Power Metal, with the crystal clear vocals of Audrey although Operatic, are never over done. Prove of this being in the opening powerful salvo of 'Let The Silence Sing' and 'Frozen Heart' with awesome keyboard and guitar interplay on the former. Great stuff here, but the highlight to my ears being the ballad, third track in 'Romance Secréte'. An awesome piece of music sung in Audrey's native tongue. Top notch vocals and instrumentation. Closer 'The Eyes Of A Beast' is top drawer Power Metal to end this amazing little platter. 'Mirror of Silence can be downloaded FREE from their website, so what are you waiting for...8.75/10 (Dave)
RHEVAN..'ONE MORE LAST ATTEMPT' Promotional EP
(Self Release) Reviewed 3rd October 2011
Rhevan is an awesome band from Brazil fronted by the tastefully good looking Dani Navarro. And with Ravenheart Music's links with Brazil, it seems that Rhevan only serve to confirm that they have a fine metal community in that country, as well as a good soccer team :) In the past, the band has released one demo, one full length album, one single and now in my grubby paws is this new promotional EP sent to me by the band. And I like it! Six tracks of well produced Symphonic Metal, you know, the type? The sort of music that would go down so well on mainland Europe. The title track, 'One More Last Attempt' kicks this little platter off in style, a thumping melodic Power Metal number, that sees Dani in operatic mode, which she handles so well. And although I say operatic, she does not over do it. 'Couldn't Read Your Lips' slows it down with totally cool orchestration, a really nice power ballad, while 'Lady Of The Forest' picks it up again, a Symphonic number with some Progressive elements, with Dani mixing her vocal styles between poppy and semi operatic. 'The Dungeon' is a Nightwish style rocker featuring Bassist Aldo on vocals as well as Dani. 'You Said Me' is the "heavy version" of a catchy and very melodic song from the band's 'Perpetually' album, while closer, the ballad and easy listener 'Me De Motivo', is sung in Dani's native tongue. I know I have made mention of Dani's vocals within this review on more than one occasion, but I must say that this album is overall a very good band effort. Visit their myspace and check this band out. This is another record that the team here at Ravenheart would highly recommend to fans of the genre..8.75/10 (Dave)
PHAVIAN..'MERIDIAN 1'
(Self Release) Reviewed 2nd October 2011
If the definition of progressive music is having an adventurous, ambitious and audacious vision, then this American quartet certainly fits the bill. This is no less than the first instalment of of a four part concept piece that will be released over the next couple of years, hence the title '1'. This first story is about a power hungry man who becomes a great ruler, but is betrayed and grows vengeful. Unusually for prog each song is built around one or two heavy guitar motifs which probably show the genesis of the songs, guitarist Puyan Hassani would start jamming a guitar riff, bassist Jason Lobell and drummer Patrick Hassani would then lay down the rhythm, and then lovely Elizabeth Matson with her pure clear voice would add a vocal line over the top. This makes for a quite an intense listening experience, the variations are subtle rather than startling. The guitar work is quite technical, like the frantic guitar riff on instrumental opener 'Slate' which sounds almost power metal and the diminutive chords used on the more portentous 'Cobalt and Crimson'. However there's no noodling, instead Puyun builds layers of chords and guitar lines, almost creating a wall of sound, 'Tyrian' being a good example. The lack of keyboards or sound/style variation is a slight concern, they are important in progressive music to enrich the sonic landscape and to add diversity and interest, like the keyboard trill in 'Stil de Grain', but on the closing piano piece 'Obsidian' Patrick shows he a tinkle the ivories, so I hope they up the keys quota in future releases. The sound is OK but perhaps a little fuzzy so it is a bit difficult to hear the lyrics, which is problem for a concept piece when you are trying to follow the story, and I do feel Elizabeth is under used and not given enough space. This is the interesting first instalment in an ambitious project, and you can download an EP with a sample song from each album from their website www.phavian.com and well as ordering a copy, an intriguing 8/10 (Phil).
ROADHOUSE..'DARK ANGEL'
(Self Release) Reviewed 8th Sept 2011
Roadhouse is one of the UK's most established big stage Blues/Rock acts, offering a collaboration between experienced musicians and much younger talented female vocalists. 'Dark Angel' is the latest in a long list of albums that have been released since the band's formation in 1991. The band is centred around permanent members Gary Boner (guitar and vox), Bill Hobley (Bass), Roger Hunt (Drums), Danny Gwilym (guitar) and Mandie G on vocals. Add to this the female vocals of Suzie D, Rachel Clark, Kelly Marie Hobbs and Samantha Richards, to secure one awesome line up. The music on this release has a Rock/Blues/Gospel feel with influences from Lynyrd Skynyrd to Creedence Clearwater Revival. I also detect a country feel too, more so on the 7 minute plus 'Rainmaker'. The male vocals remind me a little of a laid back Alice Cooper (believe it or not), so if you could imagine Alice Cooper making a Rock/Bluesey sounding album, this could be it. There is no song shorter than 4 mins and six songs exceed 6 mins, but you find yourself never getting bored with what you hear. The title track is an awesome 8+ minute ballad, with some dark lyrics..."The Devil Took My Brother, Drunken driver took my Son"...."My Dark Angel, she's looking down, She's looking down on me". This is one of my faves from this album together with the bluesey 'Stormy Monday' and the Stevie Nicks sounding 'Play With Fire'. Overall, this release is very good, so for further info about the band go to www.roadhousegb.co.uk and check them out. A pleasant release...8.75/10 (Dave)
RIFF-X..'Bruises' EP
(Self Release) Reviewed 5th August 2011
Riff-X hail from Newcastle and is fronted by Brigitta Balogh who originally comes from Budapest. This Ep offers up 5 tracks of Melodic Hard Rock, with the raunchy vocal style of Brigitta suiting this style of music very well indeed. Kicking off with the rocky title track, this leads into the live fave 'Don't Lie'. 'New Beginnings' and 'Cannot Escape' are slower numbers, while 'Castaway' ups the ante. Having caught this band live recently, they sure do rock and this EP is a very good introduction to the style of music Riff-X has to offer. Have a look at them here. This is good....8.5/10 (Dave)
RHODE ISLAND RED..'KEROSENE' EP
(Self Release) Reviewed 28th July 2011
Here we have the next voice in British Rock...her name? Lyla D'Souza. In-fact, she is originally from Australia, is now based in London (as are the rest of the band) and she has a voice that will knock you back so far it will take you months to recover. I did actually review some tracks (presumably demos) from this band last August, but now this is the official EP that is now available on iTunes, Amazon etc. Three tracks of hard rock, that Dave Garfield from the band cites as being "Pop Music in a Hard Rock Jacket". I cannot really fault the effort that the band has put into this ep, but the standout track to me and it raises the hairs on the back of my neck is 'Stalemate'. Amazing!! This is good, their website is www.rhodeislandred.co.uk and I highly recommend this band...8.75/10 (Dave)
RAVENLAND..'MEMORIES' EP
(Ravenheart Music - digital release) Reviewed 24th July 2011
It is always difficult to review an album that appears on your own label, but it has to be done and here it is. Ravenland hail from Brazil, their last album 'And A Crow Brings Me Back' was a very good effort picking up a cool review from Phil here at Ravenheart Towers. Since that release, they have had a change of female vocalist, Tatiana Berke replacing Camilla Raven as their leading lady, she now teaming up with male vocalist Dewindson Wolfheart in their new twin strike partnership. Well, what have we on this EP for us to get all excited about? - we have 'Regret' that is a 2011 rocked up version of a track that appeared on the last album, we have the stomping title track that pounds along quite nicely thankyou, and if this track is a sign of what is to come in the future, then please bring it on! 'Fire In The Sky' is an interesting Ozzy cover, while last but not least there is an accoustic version of 'Memories'. The EP can be heard in full on this very website, and I do feel this band has potential in and outside of their native Brazil, and I do look forward to their next full length offering. A cool 8.5/10 (Dave)
REGARDLESS OF ME..'PLEASURES AND FEAR'
(Unexploded Records) Reviewed 1st June 2011
If anybody who purchased 'The World Within' is expecting similar fare with this release, then hold on a moment, this is a completely different little baby. The melodies are still there, the pop rock vocals of Pamela are still apparent, but we also have a good helping of harsh male vocals, compliments of main man Emiliano Sicilia who also handles guitar and programming duties. I was curious when I read on their Facebook site that they are a Melodic Progressive Death Metal Band. I may have said their last album was Melodic and a little Progressive, but not Death Metal. But I hadn't come across this little beast. This has it all and fits their Facebook description quite nicely. And I love every moment of it! Nine tracks of Beauty and the Beast vocals, that pound along like an express train. And the highlight for me is the utterly epic 'From A Darkened Sky', that throws everything at the listener including the kitchen sink. Death Metal vocals, clean male vocals, the lovely vocals of Pamela, a heavy onslaught of guitars and slower more melodic and accoustic orchestral parts. And lets not forget 'Frozen', this being the Madonna cover, being given a Death Metal makeover by Regardless of Me, with other highlights including the extremely catchy 'The Way You Are'. Like the recent Amaranthe offering, this record may not be to everybody's liking, but to my ears this is good, as was their performance in Birmingham last Sunday at the Femme Metal Fest. 9/10 (Dave)
RAVENSCRY..'ONE WAY OUT'
(Dreamcell11/Wormholedeath) Reviewed 4th May 2011
Ravenscry's first full length offering was released on 15th April 2011, mixed by Fabrizio Grossi (Steve Vai, Steve Lukather, Slash, Laura Pausini, Cypress Hill, Alice Cooper) with the mastering done in Los Angeles (USA) by Tom Baker at the Precision Mastering Studios (Judas Priest, Sevendust, Marilyn Manson, Megadeth and many more). So some big names involved in the recording process, but has this had an impact on the album itself? The answer has to be a resounding yes! Indeed, this is an awesome record, enough said. Fronted by Giulia Stefani, if one can imagine Jennifer Rush fronting a Melodic Gothic Metal Band, then you may have a rough idea as to what Ravenscry sound like. Kicking off with 'Calliope' that hits you like a turbo charged locomotive from the opening bars, it already becomes apparent what an awesome set of pipes Giulia has. A great chorus too! 'Elements Dance' continues the excellent start to this album, but to me, the highlight of the record has to be the trio of 'Redemption I Rainy', 'Redemption II Reflection' and 'Redemption III Far Away'. These three tracks siegue perfectly into one another, providing the listener with a kind of mini rock opera within a record. Mindblowing! The remainder of the album continues in a similar vein to the first half of the record, but the standout to me has to be the vocals of Giulia. If there was any justice, her voice alone should carry this band into the mainstream. Check the band out at their Facebook Page. Before finishing this review, I wish to thank my Facebook buddy Peter 'Foggy' Ongley and Fagio from the band for ensuring I get a copy of this release so quickly. I whole heartedly recommend this recording to all and sundry, a very good effort indeed...9/10 (Dave)
CAMILLA RAVEN..'COMING ALIVE' EP Digital Release
(Self Release/Ravenheart Music) Reviewed 20th April 2011
Camilla Raven is best known for her role as lead female singer in the Brazilian Gothic Rock/Metal Band Ravenland. However, things have not gone quite according to plan. Camilla has now left the band and has not hung around in recording her debut solo EP. And not only that, the male vox on this EP are provided by Sérgio Mazul from the band Semblant. Kicking off with the piano led Ramones cover 'Pet Sematary', Camilla has laid her cards on the table for all to see. Second up is the rockier 'Living A Lie', that could be a track lifted from any Ravenland session, with third track 'Coming Alive' starting slow and solemn before the guitars kick in. The fourth track is a radio edit of 'Coming Alive'. I admire hard working musicians that put their life into making music, and Camilla is one of these musicians. If you wanna know more, contact myself here at Ravenheart Music, but these songs will soon be available on the Ravenheart Music website. 8.25/10 (Dave)
PHIDEAUX..'SNOWTORCH'
(Bloodfish) Reviewed 7th April 2011
Americans Phideaux led by mastermind and keys player Phideaux Xavier have been a top prog band and critics favourite for 8 years, and this is their eighth album, he is most certainly productive. Their music is classic early Genesis, ELP, Pink Floyd, Jethro Tull, Supertramp, Camel, Renaissance symphonic prog with a distinct English pastoral flavour. Joining Phideaux on vocals are ladies Ariel Faber, Valerie Gracious, and the Ruttan sisters Linda and Molly. This is very easy album to listen to, although the two main Snowtorch songs are very long (19 and 16 minutes), they are very well put together as they shift through the various parts, and it is all so familiar, like a montage medley of your favourite early 70's prog. This is an album that could have been released at any time in the last 40 odd years, with loads of vintage keyboards, fuzzy guitars, flute and violin. This has caused a slight difference of opinion, I believe prog means progressive not regressive, and that something new or different should be done with your sources, but my 70's prog fan friend loves the way Phideaux rekindles the spirit of the 70's masters, they are nearly all dormant so he's more than grateful that someone is still carrying the torch. This in no way decries or demeans the standard of music on offer here which is exemplary. I particularly like their playfulness, with song titles that stir fond memories of Caravan silliness such as 'Blowtorch Snowjob' and the final brief epilogue which you could merrily morris dance to. They also released a couple of singles last year, available separately, which I have used to bulk up this short album by prog standards (further releases are planned), 'Strange Cloud' which for some strange reason reminds me of that other very retro band Oasis, and the ripping good rocker 'Tempest of Mutiny' which was a collaboration with Rich Mouser and Ann Burstyn from Dream Aria that was intended as a graphic novel tie-in about Pirates, telling the tale of Captain Jack Rackham and Anne Bonny. The nub of the matter is that if you love classic 70's prog, then you will already be heading to their website, a vintage 8.5/10 (Phil)
GRACE POTTER and the NOCTURNALS..S/T
(Island) Reviewed 22nd March 2011
May I present you with the third album from this stunning American singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist with a penchant for wielding Gibson Flying V's and mauling Hammond B-3's. As you you probably tell from her choice of weapons and her hairy backing band The Nocturnals, we are dealing with classic 70's rock, but brought bang up to date. Into the melting pot throw some Steve Miller, Stevie Winwood, Bad Company, Fleetwood Mac, Eagles, Steely Dan and Faces, and serve topped with Grace's powerful soulful voice. The two lead singles are the funked up, sexed up, grooved up rockers 'Paris (Ooh La La)' (on Female Voices blog), where Grace sings “If I was a man, I'd make my move, If I was a blade I'd shave you smooth”, all I can say is “ooh la la”, and 'Medicine' in which Grace has got “the medicine everyone wants”, book me in for a consultation. There are also mellower soulful songs like 'Oasis' and 'Low Road', catchy toe tappers such as 'Money' and 'Kiss', and the heartfelt ballads 'Colors' and closer 'Things I never Needed. 'Tiny Light' ends up with the band having an almighty freak out, and 'Hot Summer Night' is a steaming stamping sing-along with Grace bashing hell out of some poor unsuspecting piano. The album successfully treads the thin line between being spontaneous, raw and visceral, with lots of whoops and hollers from Grace, and a polished major label sound. Not surprisingly the album debuted in the Billboard top 20, she is hot commercial property. Available from all the normal suspects, and her website is here, this is an 'ooh la la' 8.75/10 (Phil)
RAWKFIST..'CHRYSEUS'
(Black Bards) Reviewed 21st March 2011
One of my very favourite bands are back with their third album of Within Temptation esque symphonic metal. Once again they are lead by the divine Sabine with her wondrous tremulous voice, one of the most distinctive in music. This new opus is more adventurous, more ambitious, more epic, with more orchestrations, more choirs, more diversity, more everything. They have also added some Lunatica, Elane, Rick Wakeman, Lord of the Rings and Pirates of the Caribbean to create their own unique Rawkfist sound. Every one of the songs is stupendous, from the intricate epic title track 'Chryseus' (golden in Latin) to the ridiculously catchy 'My Heart Untamed' to the grooving romping electro 'They Made Me Walk The Plank' to the mighty galloping 'Invincible' to the glorious duet 'White Rose'. There are so many fantastic bits, pieces, ingredients and infectious hooks I could eulogise for a month and it's all immaculately produced with superb performances from all the guys. As Sabine so succinctly sings on 'Minstrel', “Deeper within the music, I will never be, Sweetly once more, This moment sets me free”, I could not put it better myself, an hour of musical heaven. Rawkfist must be the world's greatest band that nobody has ever heard of, they should be up their with the elite dining on the top table, and yet for some mystifying reason their profile is invisible. Although not as immediate as their last, which scored 9.5, this reveals more and more of its treasures with every listen, so it has to have a golden 10/10 (Phil)
PAATOS..'BREATHING'
(Glassville Records) Reviewed 5th March 2011
Swedish band Paatos were first founded back in 1999, and have three albums under their belts, but the last was back in 2006. Now they have returned with new members and a new record label. Their music is midway between Porcupine Tree and The Gathering, with echoes of Pink Floyd, Yes and Camel, producing a sound that glides and soars effortlessly with a power and grace, topped by Petronella Nettermalm's strong pure voice that reminds me of Anneke van Giersbergen, and occasionally like a female Jon Anderson. The emphasis is on melody, texture, ambiance, mood, atmosphere and musicianship, not noodling solos, a perfect example being the deceptively simple 'Shells', an almost child like nursery rhyme clothed in a sophisticated but understated accompaniment. Songs like the powerful opener 'Gone' (on Female Voices blog), the dramatic title track 'Breathing' and the sublime 'Precious' have an emotional charge that is palpable. This is heightened by a sense of Jacques Brel sepia tinged melancholy and nostalgia that permeates the album, intangible but affecting. There is no reason why gothic and alternative rock/metal fans won't enjoy this album, yes there are moments of pure prog, but the songs are so strong, melodic and emotive. Their website is here and you should find it widely available, an emotive 8.75/10 (Phil)
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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)
PERGANA..'THE MIRROR OF SILENCE' EP
(Self Release) Reviewed 10th October 2011
Here we have another band that is trying hard to set the Female Fronted Symphonic Gothic Scene alight. Pergana fronted by French girl Audrey Laure, feature musicians from France, Paraguay and Germany, and was recommended to me via Facebook by a young lass, Heather Miley. The German connection is interesting, as the musicians involved are the Holzwarth brothers, drummer Alex (RHAPSODY OF FIRE) and bassist Oliver (TARJA TURUNEN, BLIND GUARDIAN, etc.), who guest on this cd. So for starters, that may give you an idea the direction this band is travelling in. Four tracks on this EP of high octane Melodic Symphonic Power Metal, with the crystal clear vocals of Audrey although Operatic, are never over done. Prove of this being in the opening powerful salvo of 'Let The Silence Sing' and 'Frozen Heart' with awesome keyboard and guitar interplay on the former. Great stuff here, but the highlight to my ears being the ballad, third track in 'Romance Secréte'. An awesome piece of music sung in Audrey's native tongue. Top notch vocals and instrumentation. Closer 'The Eyes Of A Beast' is top drawer Power Metal to end this amazing little platter. 'Mirror of Silence can be downloaded FREE from their website, so what are you waiting for...8.75/10 (Dave)
RHEVAN..'ONE MORE LAST ATTEMPT' Promotional EP
(Self Release) Reviewed 3rd October 2011
Rhevan is an awesome band from Brazil fronted by the tastefully good looking Dani Navarro. And with Ravenheart Music's links with Brazil, it seems that Rhevan only serve to confirm that they have a fine metal community in that country, as well as a good soccer team :) In the past, the band has released one demo, one full length album, one single and now in my grubby paws is this new promotional EP sent to me by the band. And I like it! Six tracks of well produced Symphonic Metal, you know, the type? The sort of music that would go down so well on mainland Europe. The title track, 'One More Last Attempt' kicks this little platter off in style, a thumping melodic Power Metal number, that sees Dani in operatic mode, which she handles so well. And although I say operatic, she does not over do it. 'Couldn't Read Your Lips' slows it down with totally cool orchestration, a really nice power ballad, while 'Lady Of The Forest' picks it up again, a Symphonic number with some Progressive elements, with Dani mixing her vocal styles between poppy and semi operatic. 'The Dungeon' is a Nightwish style rocker featuring Bassist Aldo on vocals as well as Dani. 'You Said Me' is the "heavy version" of a catchy and very melodic song from the band's 'Perpetually' album, while closer, the ballad and easy listener 'Me De Motivo', is sung in Dani's native tongue. I know I have made mention of Dani's vocals within this review on more than one occasion, but I must say that this album is overall a very good band effort. Visit their myspace and check this band out. This is another record that the team here at Ravenheart would highly recommend to fans of the genre..8.75/10 (Dave)
PHAVIAN..'MERIDIAN 1'
(Self Release) Reviewed 2nd October 2011
If the definition of progressive music is having an adventurous, ambitious and audacious vision, then this American quartet certainly fits the bill. This is no less than the first instalment of of a four part concept piece that will be released over the next couple of years, hence the title '1'. This first story is about a power hungry man who becomes a great ruler, but is betrayed and grows vengeful. Unusually for prog each song is built around one or two heavy guitar motifs which probably show the genesis of the songs, guitarist Puyan Hassani would start jamming a guitar riff, bassist Jason Lobell and drummer Patrick Hassani would then lay down the rhythm, and then lovely Elizabeth Matson with her pure clear voice would add a vocal line over the top. This makes for a quite an intense listening experience, the variations are subtle rather than startling. The guitar work is quite technical, like the frantic guitar riff on instrumental opener 'Slate' which sounds almost power metal and the diminutive chords used on the more portentous 'Cobalt and Crimson'. However there's no noodling, instead Puyun builds layers of chords and guitar lines, almost creating a wall of sound, 'Tyrian' being a good example. The lack of keyboards or sound/style variation is a slight concern, they are important in progressive music to enrich the sonic landscape and to add diversity and interest, like the keyboard trill in 'Stil de Grain', but on the closing piano piece 'Obsidian' Patrick shows he a tinkle the ivories, so I hope they up the keys quota in future releases. The sound is OK but perhaps a little fuzzy so it is a bit difficult to hear the lyrics, which is problem for a concept piece when you are trying to follow the story, and I do feel Elizabeth is under used and not given enough space. This is the interesting first instalment in an ambitious project, and you can download an EP with a sample song from each album from their website www.phavian.com and well as ordering a copy, an intriguing 8/10 (Phil).
ROADHOUSE..'DARK ANGEL'
(Self Release) Reviewed 8th Sept 2011
Roadhouse is one of the UK's most established big stage Blues/Rock acts, offering a collaboration between experienced musicians and much younger talented female vocalists. 'Dark Angel' is the latest in a long list of albums that have been released since the band's formation in 1991. The band is centred around permanent members Gary Boner (guitar and vox), Bill Hobley (Bass), Roger Hunt (Drums), Danny Gwilym (guitar) and Mandie G on vocals. Add to this the female vocals of Suzie D, Rachel Clark, Kelly Marie Hobbs and Samantha Richards, to secure one awesome line up. The music on this release has a Rock/Blues/Gospel feel with influences from Lynyrd Skynyrd to Creedence Clearwater Revival. I also detect a country feel too, more so on the 7 minute plus 'Rainmaker'. The male vocals remind me a little of a laid back Alice Cooper (believe it or not), so if you could imagine Alice Cooper making a Rock/Bluesey sounding album, this could be it. There is no song shorter than 4 mins and six songs exceed 6 mins, but you find yourself never getting bored with what you hear. The title track is an awesome 8+ minute ballad, with some dark lyrics..."The Devil Took My Brother, Drunken driver took my Son"...."My Dark Angel, she's looking down, She's looking down on me". This is one of my faves from this album together with the bluesey 'Stormy Monday' and the Stevie Nicks sounding 'Play With Fire'. Overall, this release is very good, so for further info about the band go to www.roadhousegb.co.uk and check them out. A pleasant release...8.75/10 (Dave)
RIFF-X..'Bruises' EP
(Self Release) Reviewed 5th August 2011
Riff-X hail from Newcastle and is fronted by Brigitta Balogh who originally comes from Budapest. This Ep offers up 5 tracks of Melodic Hard Rock, with the raunchy vocal style of Brigitta suiting this style of music very well indeed. Kicking off with the rocky title track, this leads into the live fave 'Don't Lie'. 'New Beginnings' and 'Cannot Escape' are slower numbers, while 'Castaway' ups the ante. Having caught this band live recently, they sure do rock and this EP is a very good introduction to the style of music Riff-X has to offer. Have a look at them here. This is good....8.5/10 (Dave)
RHODE ISLAND RED..'KEROSENE' EP
(Self Release) Reviewed 28th July 2011
Here we have the next voice in British Rock...her name? Lyla D'Souza. In-fact, she is originally from Australia, is now based in London (as are the rest of the band) and she has a voice that will knock you back so far it will take you months to recover. I did actually review some tracks (presumably demos) from this band last August, but now this is the official EP that is now available on iTunes, Amazon etc. Three tracks of hard rock, that Dave Garfield from the band cites as being "Pop Music in a Hard Rock Jacket". I cannot really fault the effort that the band has put into this ep, but the standout track to me and it raises the hairs on the back of my neck is 'Stalemate'. Amazing!! This is good, their website is www.rhodeislandred.co.uk and I highly recommend this band...8.75/10 (Dave)
RAVENLAND..'MEMORIES' EP
(Ravenheart Music - digital release) Reviewed 24th July 2011
It is always difficult to review an album that appears on your own label, but it has to be done and here it is. Ravenland hail from Brazil, their last album 'And A Crow Brings Me Back' was a very good effort picking up a cool review from Phil here at Ravenheart Towers. Since that release, they have had a change of female vocalist, Tatiana Berke replacing Camilla Raven as their leading lady, she now teaming up with male vocalist Dewindson Wolfheart in their new twin strike partnership. Well, what have we on this EP for us to get all excited about? - we have 'Regret' that is a 2011 rocked up version of a track that appeared on the last album, we have the stomping title track that pounds along quite nicely thankyou, and if this track is a sign of what is to come in the future, then please bring it on! 'Fire In The Sky' is an interesting Ozzy cover, while last but not least there is an accoustic version of 'Memories'. The EP can be heard in full on this very website, and I do feel this band has potential in and outside of their native Brazil, and I do look forward to their next full length offering. A cool 8.5/10 (Dave)
REGARDLESS OF ME..'PLEASURES AND FEAR'
(Unexploded Records) Reviewed 1st June 2011
If anybody who purchased 'The World Within' is expecting similar fare with this release, then hold on a moment, this is a completely different little baby. The melodies are still there, the pop rock vocals of Pamela are still apparent, but we also have a good helping of harsh male vocals, compliments of main man Emiliano Sicilia who also handles guitar and programming duties. I was curious when I read on their Facebook site that they are a Melodic Progressive Death Metal Band. I may have said their last album was Melodic and a little Progressive, but not Death Metal. But I hadn't come across this little beast. This has it all and fits their Facebook description quite nicely. And I love every moment of it! Nine tracks of Beauty and the Beast vocals, that pound along like an express train. And the highlight for me is the utterly epic 'From A Darkened Sky', that throws everything at the listener including the kitchen sink. Death Metal vocals, clean male vocals, the lovely vocals of Pamela, a heavy onslaught of guitars and slower more melodic and accoustic orchestral parts. And lets not forget 'Frozen', this being the Madonna cover, being given a Death Metal makeover by Regardless of Me, with other highlights including the extremely catchy 'The Way You Are'. Like the recent Amaranthe offering, this record may not be to everybody's liking, but to my ears this is good, as was their performance in Birmingham last Sunday at the Femme Metal Fest. 9/10 (Dave)
RAVENSCRY..'ONE WAY OUT'
(Dreamcell11/Wormholedeath) Reviewed 4th May 2011
Ravenscry's first full length offering was released on 15th April 2011, mixed by Fabrizio Grossi (Steve Vai, Steve Lukather, Slash, Laura Pausini, Cypress Hill, Alice Cooper) with the mastering done in Los Angeles (USA) by Tom Baker at the Precision Mastering Studios (Judas Priest, Sevendust, Marilyn Manson, Megadeth and many more). So some big names involved in the recording process, but has this had an impact on the album itself? The answer has to be a resounding yes! Indeed, this is an awesome record, enough said. Fronted by Giulia Stefani, if one can imagine Jennifer Rush fronting a Melodic Gothic Metal Band, then you may have a rough idea as to what Ravenscry sound like. Kicking off with 'Calliope' that hits you like a turbo charged locomotive from the opening bars, it already becomes apparent what an awesome set of pipes Giulia has. A great chorus too! 'Elements Dance' continues the excellent start to this album, but to me, the highlight of the record has to be the trio of 'Redemption I Rainy', 'Redemption II Reflection' and 'Redemption III Far Away'. These three tracks siegue perfectly into one another, providing the listener with a kind of mini rock opera within a record. Mindblowing! The remainder of the album continues in a similar vein to the first half of the record, but the standout to me has to be the vocals of Giulia. If there was any justice, her voice alone should carry this band into the mainstream. Check the band out at their Facebook Page. Before finishing this review, I wish to thank my Facebook buddy Peter 'Foggy' Ongley and Fagio from the band for ensuring I get a copy of this release so quickly. I whole heartedly recommend this recording to all and sundry, a very good effort indeed...9/10 (Dave)
CAMILLA RAVEN..'COMING ALIVE' EP Digital Release
(Self Release/Ravenheart Music) Reviewed 20th April 2011
Camilla Raven is best known for her role as lead female singer in the Brazilian Gothic Rock/Metal Band Ravenland. However, things have not gone quite according to plan. Camilla has now left the band and has not hung around in recording her debut solo EP. And not only that, the male vox on this EP are provided by Sérgio Mazul from the band Semblant. Kicking off with the piano led Ramones cover 'Pet Sematary', Camilla has laid her cards on the table for all to see. Second up is the rockier 'Living A Lie', that could be a track lifted from any Ravenland session, with third track 'Coming Alive' starting slow and solemn before the guitars kick in. The fourth track is a radio edit of 'Coming Alive'. I admire hard working musicians that put their life into making music, and Camilla is one of these musicians. If you wanna know more, contact myself here at Ravenheart Music, but these songs will soon be available on the Ravenheart Music website. 8.25/10 (Dave)
PHIDEAUX..'SNOWTORCH'
(Bloodfish) Reviewed 7th April 2011
Americans Phideaux led by mastermind and keys player Phideaux Xavier have been a top prog band and critics favourite for 8 years, and this is their eighth album, he is most certainly productive. Their music is classic early Genesis, ELP, Pink Floyd, Jethro Tull, Supertramp, Camel, Renaissance symphonic prog with a distinct English pastoral flavour. Joining Phideaux on vocals are ladies Ariel Faber, Valerie Gracious, and the Ruttan sisters Linda and Molly. This is very easy album to listen to, although the two main Snowtorch songs are very long (19 and 16 minutes), they are very well put together as they shift through the various parts, and it is all so familiar, like a montage medley of your favourite early 70's prog. This is an album that could have been released at any time in the last 40 odd years, with loads of vintage keyboards, fuzzy guitars, flute and violin. This has caused a slight difference of opinion, I believe prog means progressive not regressive, and that something new or different should be done with your sources, but my 70's prog fan friend loves the way Phideaux rekindles the spirit of the 70's masters, they are nearly all dormant so he's more than grateful that someone is still carrying the torch. This in no way decries or demeans the standard of music on offer here which is exemplary. I particularly like their playfulness, with song titles that stir fond memories of Caravan silliness such as 'Blowtorch Snowjob' and the final brief epilogue which you could merrily morris dance to. They also released a couple of singles last year, available separately, which I have used to bulk up this short album by prog standards (further releases are planned), 'Strange Cloud' which for some strange reason reminds me of that other very retro band Oasis, and the ripping good rocker 'Tempest of Mutiny' which was a collaboration with Rich Mouser and Ann Burstyn from Dream Aria that was intended as a graphic novel tie-in about Pirates, telling the tale of Captain Jack Rackham and Anne Bonny. The nub of the matter is that if you love classic 70's prog, then you will already be heading to their website, a vintage 8.5/10 (Phil)
GRACE POTTER and the NOCTURNALS..S/T
(Island) Reviewed 22nd March 2011
May I present you with the third album from this stunning American singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist with a penchant for wielding Gibson Flying V's and mauling Hammond B-3's. As you you probably tell from her choice of weapons and her hairy backing band The Nocturnals, we are dealing with classic 70's rock, but brought bang up to date. Into the melting pot throw some Steve Miller, Stevie Winwood, Bad Company, Fleetwood Mac, Eagles, Steely Dan and Faces, and serve topped with Grace's powerful soulful voice. The two lead singles are the funked up, sexed up, grooved up rockers 'Paris (Ooh La La)' (on Female Voices blog), where Grace sings “If I was a man, I'd make my move, If I was a blade I'd shave you smooth”, all I can say is “ooh la la”, and 'Medicine' in which Grace has got “the medicine everyone wants”, book me in for a consultation. There are also mellower soulful songs like 'Oasis' and 'Low Road', catchy toe tappers such as 'Money' and 'Kiss', and the heartfelt ballads 'Colors' and closer 'Things I never Needed. 'Tiny Light' ends up with the band having an almighty freak out, and 'Hot Summer Night' is a steaming stamping sing-along with Grace bashing hell out of some poor unsuspecting piano. The album successfully treads the thin line between being spontaneous, raw and visceral, with lots of whoops and hollers from Grace, and a polished major label sound. Not surprisingly the album debuted in the Billboard top 20, she is hot commercial property. Available from all the normal suspects, and her website is here, this is an 'ooh la la' 8.75/10 (Phil)
RAWKFIST..'CHRYSEUS'
(Black Bards) Reviewed 21st March 2011
One of my very favourite bands are back with their third album of Within Temptation esque symphonic metal. Once again they are lead by the divine Sabine with her wondrous tremulous voice, one of the most distinctive in music. This new opus is more adventurous, more ambitious, more epic, with more orchestrations, more choirs, more diversity, more everything. They have also added some Lunatica, Elane, Rick Wakeman, Lord of the Rings and Pirates of the Caribbean to create their own unique Rawkfist sound. Every one of the songs is stupendous, from the intricate epic title track 'Chryseus' (golden in Latin) to the ridiculously catchy 'My Heart Untamed' to the grooving romping electro 'They Made Me Walk The Plank' to the mighty galloping 'Invincible' to the glorious duet 'White Rose'. There are so many fantastic bits, pieces, ingredients and infectious hooks I could eulogise for a month and it's all immaculately produced with superb performances from all the guys. As Sabine so succinctly sings on 'Minstrel', “Deeper within the music, I will never be, Sweetly once more, This moment sets me free”, I could not put it better myself, an hour of musical heaven. Rawkfist must be the world's greatest band that nobody has ever heard of, they should be up their with the elite dining on the top table, and yet for some mystifying reason their profile is invisible. Although not as immediate as their last, which scored 9.5, this reveals more and more of its treasures with every listen, so it has to have a golden 10/10 (Phil)
PAATOS..'BREATHING'
(Glassville Records) Reviewed 5th March 2011
Swedish band Paatos were first founded back in 1999, and have three albums under their belts, but the last was back in 2006. Now they have returned with new members and a new record label. Their music is midway between Porcupine Tree and The Gathering, with echoes of Pink Floyd, Yes and Camel, producing a sound that glides and soars effortlessly with a power and grace, topped by Petronella Nettermalm's strong pure voice that reminds me of Anneke van Giersbergen, and occasionally like a female Jon Anderson. The emphasis is on melody, texture, ambiance, mood, atmosphere and musicianship, not noodling solos, a perfect example being the deceptively simple 'Shells', an almost child like nursery rhyme clothed in a sophisticated but understated accompaniment. Songs like the powerful opener 'Gone' (on Female Voices blog), the dramatic title track 'Breathing' and the sublime 'Precious' have an emotional charge that is palpable. This is heightened by a sense of Jacques Brel sepia tinged melancholy and nostalgia that permeates the album, intangible but affecting. There is no reason why gothic and alternative rock/metal fans won't enjoy this album, yes there are moments of pure prog, but the songs are so strong, melodic and emotive. Their website is here and you should find it widely available, an emotive 8.75/10 (Phil)
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