Ravenheart Music: Album Reviews

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ALHENA..EP

(Self Release) Reviewed 21st February 2012

Alhena was formed in January 2010 in Bydgoszcz, Poland. It was a realisation of passions for making own music visions by people who met shortly after leaving previous bands. Alhena was formed by Piotr Kowalski (keyboard), Tomasz Bogulski (guitar), Piotr Grugel (drums), Robert Puk (bass). After a few months of looking for a vocalist, Katarzyna Dziemianowicz became a member of the group. After changing bass guitarists, the group began intensive work on composing material. It resulted in an EP, on which five tracks showed up and those compositions are showcased here. And Alhena is another band that if given the right exposure, could go well within the genre. The music on offer here mixes, rock and metal, with a little gothic and plenty of progressive, and I think typifies the music coming out of Poland at the moment. There are no real verse - chorus moments here, as a consequence, this is what I would call thinking person's music. Katarzyna has the type of voice that one moment sounds angelic, and the next she belts it out in a true Rock fashion. Opener 'Trial' is a Progressive number, while 'Better' maintains the Progressive elements. 'You Lost Me' is an in yer face ballad that starts with piano and voice, before the full band kicks in, one of my fave tracks on the EP, this one. 'Breath' is a slow progressive number, while 'Nemesis' is an instrumental that closes the album. I suppose if you think Dying Passion and perhaps to an extent Autumn, that may be will give you a rough idea where this band is going, although punters will no doubt draw their own conclusions. The band can be checked out here. A recommended 8.5/10 (Dave)

BLACKTHORN..'CODEX ARCHAOS'

(MSR Productions) Reviewed February 14th 2012

All girl Russian band Blackthorn fronted by Aina, is a band that blew me away with their previous release 'Gossamer Witchcraft', so much so I even ended up distributing the album for them here in the UK and Ireland. This, their second release with English lyrics, is one of the most lavishly packaged independent releases I have ever set my eyes upon, and if the way an album is packaged is a major selling point, then this should sell by the bucket load! 'Gossamer Witchcraft' was an awesome album, and for the band to follow that, well they had a big task on their hands. But to be honest, not only have they done a grand job with the new release, they have upped the ante as well. Aina continues to serve up a massive contribution vocal wise, and not only with a Soprano voice, but she offers up growls aswell, together with guitarist and keyboardist Elvira. And I am sorry, but I have to say it, a female growler I do actually find rather sexy :) Anyway, I digress, let's get back to the music on offer, and we even have a full time violinist in the band plus the Choral Ensemble of the Moscow Conservatory, to add a rather wonderful choral component to the music. Sung in Russian, English, German and Italian, lyrically this is sinister stuff. But then what do you expect when you have an all girl band pouding out Black Demonic music of the highest calibre, with titles like 'Divination in Blood', 'Gorgon The Ascendant' and 'Bestial Satan of Grotesque Beauty'. I kid you not, this is quite simply awesome, and the violin and the Choral Ensemble just about makes it for me. Great all round musicianship from all concerned, the aforementioned violin, the soprano, the growls, superb keys and guitars, plus some kick ass drumming from Varaska. It is all here and waiting to grab you where it hurts most. I like Russia as a country, they have some great bands at the moment as well, but I will say this, Blackthorn has now climbed into the Premier League, absolutely no doubt about that...10/10 (Dave)

AT THE LAKE..'MAYA'

(Self Release) Reviewed 27th January 2012

Polish band At the Lake have a long history, but after a flurry of activity in the mid noughties when they released an extended EP, they suffered choppy waters and fell off the radar. Now they are back with a vengeance with this début LP, which gets it's name from the Mayan legend that the world will end in 2012, so I'm off to party party party! Musically obvious references are Mother Earth era Within Temptation, Lyriel and Elane, light symphonic gothic rock/metal with folk flourishes, but they have two magic ingredients that gives them a whole new dimension. Firstly scintillating singer Natalia Sikora has a stupendous rich powerful deep bluesy expressive rock voice that gives the songs mass appeal. In perfect harmony is vivacious violinist Milena Gaworek's songwriting which is incredibly catchy, inspiring, melodic and commercial, and she is the only specialist violinist who does not play other instruments or sing lead that I can think of who is also a songwriter, I guess she must also be able play guitar or keys because I would have thought it was impossible to write songs on a monophonic (one note) instrument because all songs have a chord structure, interesting. After a melodramatic instrumental intro comes the galloping 'Live Again' which almost heads towards Wildpath, then the jig infused fiery 'Forget' and the dramatic stomping 'Like a Northern Wind'. The next two are absolutely outstanding and infectious songs that really bounce along, 'The Spring of Forgiveness' and 'Running Out of Time', featuring their unique choir vocals that are so effective throughout the album, perhaps a little like Sirenia's. The next two are more Elane esque, the mellow 'Neverland Train' and the rousing 'The Perfect Man', and it ends with the 9 minute moody magnificent epic 'Karma' which features the Vedic Hindu 'Gayatri Mantra'. You also get a couple of bonus tracks for you hard earned cash, a thumping version of Rammstein's 'Sonne' which comes as quite a shock after the calming 'Karma', and a song in their native Polish, 'Dziecko we Mgle' (Child in the Mist). It's all splendidly produced by Jacek Melnicki, a former member of top Polish prog band Riverside, with a lightness of touch that gives plenty of space for Milena's violin, Anna's keyboards and Krzysztof's various electric and acoustic guitars. Normally European gothic metal has connotations with doom and gloom, but Natalia's vocals and Milena's songwriting produce an effervescent album that combines deep meaningful lyrics with lively upbeat music, most unusual. Take a swim to their lake at here and sail away with this beauty, an inspiring 9.25/10 (Phil)

ANNEKE VAN GIERSBERGEN..'EVERYTHING IS CHANGING'

(PIAS Holland) Reviewed 25th January 2012

Do I file this review in the 'A' section, the 'V' section or the 'G' section? Oh what the heck. Anyway, I saw Anneke live when she supported Within Temptation. Her set was only 30 mins, not a lot of time really to showcase any new material, but what I did hear, I liked. It came across to me as rather commercial and accessible, and you will not hear me complain about that. But there again, I like anything that Anneke pushes out, having been a fan since her The Gathering days. What we have here is 12 tracks of commercial and rather catchy Pop/Rock, with enormous cross over potential. I am not sure here where to start as this album is very good to my ears. It has catchy tunes, 'Feel Alive', 'My Boy' and 'Hope, Pray, Dance, Play' as just three examples, the record has ballads, 'Circles' showcasing what an awesome voice this lass has, and to my ears, there is not a filler in sight. 'Too Late' even flirts with Metal, while '1000 Miles From You' is heavily orchestrated and is an epic tune to close the album! I know there are people that will cry sell out, and that Anneke is not the same since she left The Gathering. But no doubt it is those very same people that scream about Nightwish being a crap band without Tarja, and Within Temptation moving more towards the Rock genre. But we all have to move on and this record quite simply is very good. If you like your music catchy and melodic with an awesome female voice, buy it!! 9.25/10 (Dave)

AMANTYDE..'MADCHEN'

(Red Pony Records) Reviewed 24th December 2011

Amantyde was born in 2006 in Venice (Italy), inspired by the wide alternative groove metal scene of the new millenium. Listing their interests as Booze, Pussy and Drugs, the band fronted by the powerful voice of Nicky Genovese offers a banal story of sex and power, a play on words in the italian dialect from the name of a small insect, the mantis, whose female devours the male during intercourse, and the phonetic transcription of "A Man tied". Amantyde is the alter ego of the band's leader Nicky, a character with an often controversial image, oscillating between masculinity and femininity, innocence and prostitution, incoherence and sincerity, that through her words, tries to untie the knots of her story, telling her own moral redemption through violence, contradictions, arrogance and weakness of the generation of the 21th century. Now you know and the album itself offers up nine tracks of alternative but melodic rock music with quite a crunch. Opener 'Creepy Crowlies' lays the band's cards on the table, with second up 'Join me In The Desert' kinda offering a slightly more industrial vibe, with subtle but harsh background male vocals that pop up for a few seconds. There are highlights galore on this release, 'Summer Breeze' with it's catchy chorus, and the equally catchy 'My Cold Room' with Nicky taking hold of this song by the short and curlies and giving it her all. 'My Enemy' is one of the heavier more chaotic and aggressive numbers on the record given the distorted vocal treatement, while 'Nothing But The Rain' is a another heavy and rather manic number, but with a catchy chorus to maintain your interest. There is also a cover, The Cranberries 'Zombie' given the Amantyde treatment, and treat it they do with a good dose of metal. I actually find this release quite "sexy, raunchy and bold" if I may say so. Imagine a boozed up Paramore on drugs :) It can be purchased at cdbaby while the band can be checked out here..recommended! 8.75/10 (Dave)

ACT III..'JUST ANOTHER TRAGEDY'

(Self Release) Reviewed 21st December 2011

Way back in the depths of time, 18th March 2009 to be precise, I reviewed an EP by this Swedish Combo entitled 'Princess Tragedy', and I found the release totally awesome and worthy of a 9/10. That EP still finds it's way onto my cd deck from time to time, as I never get fed up with listening to it. Now here at the end of 2011, Act III (or Act 3) give me this their new offering, and this is as good if not better than their previous little platter. Okay, there have been a few changes within the band personel, and all credit to band founder Michael Andersson for not giving up in the face of adversity. With Louise Steffensen now at the helm replacing previous vocalist Lina, 'Just Another Tragedy' contines where 'Princess Tragedy' left off. Four tracks of awesome melodic metal, driven along by the totally cool drumming of Mattias Flintberg, who was actually drummer on the previous incarnation of this band. The vocals of Louise nail it perfectly, a kinda sultry melancholic pop/rock vibe to her vocal performance. I just challenge anybody to sit still while listening to the four tracks here as I find it near damn impossible. The title suggests 'Just Another Tragedy' but simply, this is just another awesome record from this band. Check out their Facebook Band Page and get it!! Recommended. 9/10 (Dave)

ABSYNTHE AURA..'UNBREAKABLE'

(Street Symphonies -Logic(Il)Logic) Reviewed 19th December 2011

Italians Absynth Aura first came together in 2007 to record the single 'Will Is Power' for the 'Virus Free Generation' campaign, which aimed to raise awareness of HIV/Aids. Finding they had a unique chemistry, they recorded a promo EP which received a lot of critical acclaim so they began to meticulously record this début album. They are all enormously talented musicians in their own right, captivating Claudia "Klod" Saponi on vocals, guitarist Michele "Dr.Viossy" Vioni , Giorgio "JT" Terenziani on bass, and drummer Marco "Mark" Renzi. Superficially I would put them somewhere between Lacuna Coil and Evanescence, but there are other facets to their sound, including elements of prog, gothic, classic rock, blues, soul and jazz. In perfect partnership, Klod can do rock, blues, soul and country with equal ease, moving from effortlessly from Amy Lee to Cristina Scabbia to Joss Stone in style, with a characteristic sexy rasp when she applies the power. This means that there is real diversity on this album within a consistent sound and style. They open with a brace of powerful Lacuna Coil esque groovers, 'Believe Me' and 'Desert Flower', the swaying waltzing 'That's Why You Die' heads towards Within Temptation, and then a real highlight, the jazzy Latin infused 'Smile' with it's gorgeous melody that certainly brought a grin to my face, it would make a great single. In total contrast 'Understand My Fight' is a balls out bluesy rocker, followed by a classic piano ballad, 'Looking For The One', and then 'Life', a powerful ballad duet with Fabio Dessi from the band Arthemis. They return to their signature prog, soul and blues tinged gothic alt-metal for the final three numbers, 'The Fire in My Eyes', the afore mentioned 'Will is Power' and the epic title track 'Unbreakable'. The bonus track is a terrific cover of The Cranberries 'Zombie', where they really let their hair down and let rip, and it's a measure of the quality of the song-writing on the album that it does not sound out of place and fits seamlessly, it certainly murders Sarah Jezebel Deva's version. Musicianship throughout is exemplary, lots of fluid leads and a diverse array of styles by Dr. Voissy, brilliant virtuoso bass playing by JT including a couple of amazing solos, and rock solid highly skilled drumming by Mark, all beautifully produced by the band and Roberto Priori. This is a highly commercial, melodic and catchy album that has all the ingredients, including a stunning singer, skilled musicians, top production and a superb selection of songs, to go down a storm in America as well as Europe. In fact, unless you had told me, thanks to that hint of blues I would have thought they were American. Take a break and visit their website here, a soulful 9/10 (Phil)

ARAPACIS..'NETHERWORLD'

(Ravenheart Music) Reviewed 7th December 2011

Arapacis was formed by guitarist Jerry Fielden in Montreal, Canada, in 2003 with the goal of fusing together 70's hard rock and prog with modern gothic, prog and doom metal to form a unique metal fusion, hence they cite their influences as Deep Purple to Rush to Leaves Eyes to Dream Theater to Candlemass, quite a portfolio. This is their third album, following on from 'So Many Leapers' in 2006 and 2009's 'Consequences of Dreams'. Out front is red hot flame haired Lizzie Fyre who can not only really belt it but also has a lovely French vibrato, rather like Belinda Carlisle but with extra oomph. First spin shows that compared to their previous efforts they don't bounce between their extremes as much, but generally opt for a more conventional hard rocking style. The production is also much improved, the murk has cleared and it sounds far more refined. Highlights are the awesome catchy driving rockers 'End of the Line', 'Horror Show' and 'Unbirth' that remind me of The Dictators. 'Lords of Clouds' and 'The Affliction', as befits their titles, have a more doom and Black Sabbath vibe, while 'Beautifully Blind' is a lovely Jethro Tull esque acoustic ballad with some super violin. The most singular and striking number is 'Crisis' which is far more prog metal and marks the welcome appearance of synths courtesy of Guy LeBlanc (Camel, Nathan Mahl), adding some much needed variety to the sound, it has some surprising changes of tempo, and as to what the syncopated key signature is, the mind boggles. On 'Beneath Me' they have an ill-advised bash at death/black metal, quite why Lizzie wants to risk her voice and hence her career by growling and screaming goodness only knows, this is the one song that should have been binned, it does not fit in at all. I'm baffled why the unrepresentative 'Crisis' is the lead single, it's a great song but people will think they're a prog metal band with keyboards, a radio edit of 'Unbirth' would be the more obvious choice. I say radio edit because this and the ballad have unnecessarily extended heavy endings, I'm a strong believer in the KISS method, no, not Gene Simmons and his painted pals, but keep it simple stupid, especially when the songs themselves are so good and stand on their own merits, less can be more. On the other hand the final instrumental 'Dark Days Ahead' sounds like a terrific intro to an unfinished epic, this really does need developing. Throughout the album Jerry provides lashing of expert shredding, and in Lizzie they have a unique, stunning and outstanding singer. Netherworld sees marked improvement in every department, and they have in the main curtailed their excesses to create a far more consistent and polished album with some excellent songs. Initiallly available digitally with the physical release expected early in 2012, this is more for fans of traditional heavy metal and classic heavy rock, their Netherworld lies here, a much improved 8.5/10 (Phil)

ANCIENT BARDS..'SOULLESS CHILD'

(Limb Music) Reviewed 18th November 2011

The Italian masters of symphonic metal mayhem are back with the second instalment of the Black Crystal Sword saga. In the last instalment we learnt that Sendor the dark wizard has discovered that the sword can give him supreme powers and is determined to seize it, but it is hidden in a dark cave and locked in a casket that only the four rulers of Lastworld can open. A mysterious stranger called Dorus warns Queen Shena and the other three kings, can they save the sword from falling into the wizards evil clutches? We left it as King Daltor is taken away by the Black Dragon, Dorus now takes his place, and they set forth upon the cave only to find Sodor has stolen the casket. They pursue him to his castle but who is Dorus, and what is the wizard's cunning plan to open the casket? Stay tuned for the answers to these and many other questions. Their Rhapsody esque metal has been honed to a burnished sheen as shining warrior maiden Sara Squadrani once again leads her troops on their quest. Steady yourself for an onslaught of rousing refrains, sword waving anthems, dramatic orchestrations, massive choirs, Daniele Mazza's rapidly rippling synths, Martino Garattoni's superhuman bass, Fabio Balducci rapier quick guitar, and Federico Gatti's grease lightning drumming and double peddling that would put a lesser man in hospital, with Sara soaring high above the carnage. After the intro comes three songs including the lead song 'To the Master of Darkness' (video on Female Voices) that the are the aural equivalent of being stampeded by a massed cavalry charge of French chevaliers led by Jeanne d'Arc. The beginning of the mighty epic 'All That Is True' gives us the chance to mop our brows and tend to the wounded, before once more into the breach, dear friends, once more, when the blast of war blows in our ears then stiffen the sinews, summon up the blood, and disguise fair nature with hard-favour'd rage. Gianmaria Vannoni from Dawn Under Eclipse contributes some ferocious shouts to the almighty penultimate track 'Through My Veins' and if we are still standing by the end, then the final gargantuan 14 minute masterpiece 'Hope Dies last' will apply the coup de grâce. All the songs are superbly crafted with great tunes and lots of variation so it never gets tiresome, and it is all wonderfully produced with an awesome sound that's full and rich without battering you to death. It is staggering that they can play at this level of skill at this pace, they certainly never take the easy way out. With the demise of Rhapsody, Ancient Bards are ready to ascend to the throne, The King is dead, long live The King! They are now the undisputed masters of turbo charged symphonic power metal, so set forth unto their land of legend here, a gargantuan 9/10. (Reviewed by Phil, with special guest appearance by William Shakespeare).

ANKOR..'MY OWN ANGEL'

(STF Records) Reviewed 11th November 2011

Ankor fronted by the angelic vocals of Rosa De La Cruz hail from Spain, and provide the listener with a mega dose of Melodic Metal, which I suppose reminds me of what In This Moment may sound like with dual male and female vocals. Ankor was formed in May 2003, when some fourteen-year-old friends decided to get together to enjoy, create and let their imagination run wild with music. Their first album ‘Al Fin Descansar’ (sung in Spanish), was released by the Spanish label ‘Santo Grial Producciones’ in January 2008. The band received wide acceptation by the public, as well as good reviews by the rock music press, especially considering that the average age of the members at the time was only 19. Various Japanese distributors acquired the album, and it sold out in Japan within only a few weeks. With a much more mature, personal and evolved style, the band now present their new album to the World and it is jolly good too I might add! As I say, In This Moment springs to mind, so you have no Gothic or Operatic warblings going on here. In-fact, I observe that only the keys player and the drummer are not credited with doing any vocals, so it seems most of this six member band chip in with the vocals at sometime during this release, with the main focus being on Rosa of course. We do get occasional screams, compliments of Bassist Julio, but for those who do not like screamo vocals, they are not overdone. The title track slows the album down, this track screaming radio airplay! If I had one criticism, I suppose the songs do start to sound a little samey towards the end, but having said that, for a band who are so young, this release is an awesome effort. Check the band out at their Facebook. Great stuff guys and gal! 8.25/10 (Dave)

AUTUMN..'COLD COMFORT'

(Metal Blade Records) Reviewed 11th November 2011

Dutch heavy rock collective Autumn make a return to the front line this November with their new album, Cold Comfort. This is the band's fifth full-length effort (their third for Metal Blade Records), and I have every single one of them! It offers a collection of nine striking songs blended into a diverse and yet surprisingly compact album, one that Autumn considers to be their most personal and meaningful to date. While Autumn's roots remain firmly planted in heavy rock/guitar-oriented soil, their branches are stretching out to encompass more progressive musical genres, and alternative approaches to the sound of individual songs. In other words, and despite the label that has released this record, this is not Heavy Metal. However, the tracks still carry some gutso to them, with the opener 'The Scarecrow' starting quietly before the downtuned (that's right) guitars kick in accompanied with the beautiful vocals of Marjan, whose voice has to be the highlight of this album. Indeed, at times, I am almost reminded of a grunge guitar sound here to be perfectly honest, more apparent on closer 'The Venamoured' (a fave track of mine). As mentioned above though, the band does seem to have stretched out to embrace a more progressive and experimental sound on this record. Further fave tracks for me have to be the aforementioned opener, the hard rocking 'Black Stars In A Blue Sky', the catchy & progressive 'Retrospect' and the up tempo 'Naeon'. The thing with Autumn is they have developed a sound of their own, and that is what to me makes them stand out from the female fronted crowd. An excellent offering here, well worth checking out and it should be fairly easy to obtain from the normal sources... 8.75/10 (Dave)

ABOVE THE SKYLINE..'DREAMCATCHER' EP

I like a bit of relaxtion music, and this 2 track EP by Above The Skyline fronted by Kris Tilbury does just that. This CD that Kris has recorded with her partner in crime Bruno Duarte, is not metal, but it certainly should be targeted at a New Age audience, and would be the type of music purchasable from such shops. First track 'Dreamcatcher' is a piano led number and is a tune that in-fact tends to stick in your head long after the cd has finished. Second track 'Out Of Reach' is more electro with the synths leading the way on this one, but just as relaxing. If you have had a hard day at the office, stick this on with a bottle of wine and immerse yourself in the music. I won't score this as the CD is just the two tracks, but this is damn good! Their Facebook page is here.

AVENGE VULTURE ATTACK..'RENEW' EP

(Self Release) Reviewed 25th October 2011

Time to sit up and listen folks to this band from West London. Fronted by Scots lass Ella Grace, they offer up an Alternative/Punk style that would appeal to the Paramore fan I would say, well that kinda style anyway. I am not saying for one moment that AVA sound like Paramore on this release, as they certainly do carry a sound of their own, and that becomes apparent the more you listen to the record. The rather vibrant 'Seven Dirty Bad Things' kicks things off, while next track, the catchy 'Renew' carries on the good work of the opener, throwing some forceful hooks into the mix. 'You Are Nothing' is a slightly slower number, but suggest to me that Ella is a force to be reckoned with, regards her punk like vocal attack. Closer, the rather forceful 'All About You' ends this little platter on a high. From great artwork to a great sound, this is a band to keep an eye on. Check them out here, which takes you onto their myspace site, while I would most certainly recommend this to fans of the genre, 8.5/10 (Dave)

ANALGESIA..'BEYOND ILLUSION'

(Self Release) Reviewed 12th October 2011

Very occasionally you find something very special in the most unlikely of places. Moroccans Analgesia, led by guitarist Ahmed Zine, started out in as a melodic metal band, releasing the album 'Return to the Self'. Then they replaced the original singer with mezzo-soprano and lyricist Youssra Atmen (all lyrics in English) and started to introduce some classical elements, and they made their first foray into symphonic metal with 2008's 'Era of the Storyteller'. Their evolution has now come to full flower with this new album, producing the sort of music Nightwish might have if they had not sacked Tarja, epic symphonic metal with full orchestra and 74 member choir. Opener 'Revolution has Begun' is a absolutely awesome anthem about a child who witnesses an invasion of their homeland by a tyrant, a story that would resonate with the Moroccans as they were under the yoke of European superpowers until their independence in 1956, and of course they are next door to Libya. 'Four Candles For Five Corners' is about a man who is under the spell of an evil demon and it could be the soundtrack to a sword and sandals epic blockbuster, then the joyful folky 'The Way to Eminence' that will have you dancing around the room. 'Follow Me' is a classic lighter waving ballad featuring Youssra and three of Morocco's top rock singers, Badr Assa, Tarik Ljouad and Faycal Chayan, with the sing-along chorus “Follow me through the wind, Follow me to the fairy dream, Follow me and you will see, You’ll never feel loneliness again, We need you”. A brief acoustic piece 'Clock Of All Time' picks up some of the themes from 'Revolution Has Begun' followed by the sublime power ballad 'Upon a Dream' which shows off Youssra's glorious voice, bassist Mounir Houaoura's poignant violin and Hassan Bourih's tinkling piano and keys. They pick it up again with the dramatic rousing 'Amphion', then Ahmed shows he too has an excellent voice on the very moving acoustic number 'Back to Life' before the stomping catchy last song 'A Bird in Paradise' which culminates at the end with them inventing symphonic trance metal. Throughout the album Samir Houaoura's drums kick the music along at a cracking pace, and he is aided by superb production and sound. This album is absolutely jaw dropping, but amazingly Ahmed in a statement said "We decided not to put the album on sale”, but “to share it from friend to friend “, “anyone wishing to have a (download) copy of this album just send a simple request to the following address: Analgesia.Contact@gmail.com ! So follow me to their website, a glorious and painless 9.5/10 (Phil)

BLOOD STAIN CHILD..'EPSILON'

(Coroner Records) Reviewed 6th October 2011

My friend and Blood Stain Child fan Glen says that this Japanese band “have released 5 albums in total. The first 2 were death-metal, the next 2 started to incorporate more industrial keyboard sounds, still with a lot of death grunts and a Japanese female singer, she had a very heavy accented voice and they had pretty much a niche market in Japan and the East”, which is probably why they are still classified as melodic death metal (MDM). Now the striking Greek singer and lyricist Sophia has come on board for this fifth album and it marks a new sound and direction as they take on the west with their brand of electro gothic dance metal, recently making first appearance in America. If you imagine a mash up of Lacuna Coil, XE-None, and Amaranthe then you will be in the right sort of ballpark. Unlike western groups who favour jeans and black T-shirts, Japanese bands certainly know how to create a striking visual image and the famous Gothic & Lolita brand Chantilly and Atelier-Pierrot created the exclusive stage costumes for Sophia and and female guitarist RYU who writes all the music. Blood Stain Child rampage through a cataclysm of amphetamine fuelled, highly infectious, raging rockers, with the songs falling into three loose categories, those that are more alt metal, those that are more MDM, and those that will leave you in a bloodied and battered heap on the dance-floor. Extreme vocals seem to be the in thing at the moment but regular readers will know I'm not a growl fan, however although bass player Ryo sounds to me like a very angry Taz being put through a mangle, Sophia with her excellent and very American sounding pop-rock voice is very much the star of the show. Ettore Riggotti from the Italian death metal outfit Disarmonia Mundi is in charge of the production knobs, and his band-mate Claudio Ravinale crops up as a guest on a couple of songs. Aki's synths provide a lot of catchy hooks and zest to the mix, Ryo and G.S.R.'s fast and furious guitars add the metal, and goodness knows what new drummer Gami is on, but I'll have some. Personal trance dance rave faves include the astronomical 'Stargazer' and the live-wire 'Electricity', and amongst the alt-rockers 'S.O.P.H.I.A' and the starlit 'Moon Light Wave'. Strangely the only ballad and another personal fave 'Sai-Ka-No' (all lyrics are in English btw) comes at the end, it would have been nice to have had a slower number or something different in the middle just to give your poor body a rest from the grooving mayhem, so it's appropriate they're on Coroner, you'll need one after dancing your way through this. BDS have certainly produced an album that will have worldwide commercial appeal, so strut your funky stuff to here for more low down, a fully fuelled 8.5/10 (Phil)

ALICE SWEET ALICE..'MANDALA'

(Cauldron Soundwerx) Reviewed 29th Sept 2011

Scott Martinez is an icon in his own right. ASA is his own band, he has formed his own record label (Cauldron Soundwerx), and he has his own studios to boot. This guy is a prime example of a musician commited to his cause, and good luck to him. I have always considered ASA a sort of Psychedelic band, with strong Pink Floyd comparisons with Scott at the helm. But with Ali Kat in the band and now doing more of the share of vocals, it is her vocals that make this release even more interesting. This has a more alternative rock vibe, that has radio airplay written all over it. Some great catchy but mature numbers here, and when the band slow it down, the awesome ballad 'Undone' is simply just that - awesome! Listen to the lyrics, this song brings tears to my eyes, absolutely super! Scott is not totally away from the limelight, he takes lead vox on '3 Tides' and yep, I cannot help to compare to the Floyd again and other late 60's early 70's music. But to be compared to such an awesome band is surely awesome in itself. MANDALA is an album you can put in your car and lose yourself within on a long drive. It's an album you can sing along with and it's an album you will always keep for those times of pain, hardships and gladness. MANDALA is an intoxicating blend of beauty and madness - an album you will cherish always and I know I will. Go to www.cauldronsoundwerx to find out more, but I myself will not hesitate to give this a 9/10 (Dave)

ADRANA..'THE ANCIENT REALMS'

(Brennus) Reviewed 25th Sept 2011

Adrana are from Tours in the centre of the Loire valley, one of the most historically important and architecturally rich areas in the World. Within a few miles stupendous royal château were built (Amboise, Blois, Chambord, etc.) and countless important events took place, including the famous crusader Richard Cœur de Lion (The Lionheart, King of England) being laid to rest at Abbaye de Fontevraud, the fairytale Château d'Ussé inspiring Charles Perrault to write Sleeping Beauty, and Jeanne d'Arc (Joan of Arc) meeting the future Charles VII (of France) at the Forteresse Royale de Chinon, changing the course of European History. Leonardo da Vinci, who lived and died at nearby Clos Lucé, designed elaborate stage sets for his patron François the 1st's sumptuous parties, and at the romantic Château de Chenonceau Henri II's wife Catherine de Médicis seduced her guests with her L'Escadron Volant (Flying Squad) of scantily clad lovelies. This history and culture runs through the veins of the band, it inspires their lyrics which are steeped in romantic heroic legend, they dress in chain mail and medieval costume, and they carry on the grand tradition of theatrical pageantry and stagecraft, but sadly without the flying squad. The album tells story of the warrior princess Adrana and her crusade through the land of ice and snow to free her kingdom from tyranny, and a book is about to be published documenting her adventures. Their music appropriately is slightly speedy symphonic power metal. This is truly symphonic, the outstanding and very authentic sounding orchestrations are an integral and essential part of the music, I doff my great helm to keys player Grhyll, and they have a six member choir. Equally appropriately Anaé has a genuine pitch perfect soprano voice, you can tell she is highly trained by her harmonious tone and subtle use of vibrato, very different to people attempting operatic who sing flat and therefore sound flat, and she has to be lightning fast to deal with some real tongue twisters. This is nothing revolutionary, but who cares, they do it so well, everything is highly polished, perfected and professional, and oh so easy to listen to. Ludo's fluid guitars have a lovely warm fuzzy sound, drummer Max's bursts of double peddling are of the feathery French fluttering style and he provides plenty of rhythmic variety, while bass player Mric is highly skilled. There's ten bright, bouncy and hugely melodic epics plus the glorious ballad 'Prison of Memories' sandwiched between a grand orchestral intro and outro making a well rounded and balanced package. You get lots of battle hymns to wave your rapier along to, “Take up arms to destiny, Let us liberate this oppressed and ravaged world, Fire Warriors!”, ‘The Bow and the Beast’, as well as loads of interesting musical interludes and interplay, for example the harpsichord and bass duet in the same song. All in all a most enjoyable album for symphonic and power metal warriors, and if you've never tried this type of music, give it a whirl, you will be pleasantly surprised. Their legendary land is here, an exuberant 8.75/10 (Phil)

VIC ANSELMO..'IN MY FRAGILE'

(Danse Macabre) Reviewed 7th Sept 2011

The lovely Latvian gothic goddess is back with second album of musical delights. For those new to her she gets her stage name from Pantera's vocalist Phil Anselmo, she is a massive fan, but her music could not be more different. Vic is one of the most unique and imaginative songwriters and lyricists around, in the vein of other singular artists like Bat For Lashes (Natasha Kahn), Florence and the Machine (Florence Welsh), Bjork, Kate Bush, Divine Madness (Victoria Mazze), Divine Comedy (Neil Hannon), Danny Elfman and Hans Zimmer, but I also detect a strong Muse influence as well. All the creative team behind her début album 'Trapped in a Dream' are back for this second, including production by guitarist Herman Rigmant and keys player George Kadolchik, who used to play in the death metal band Neglected Fields, another total opposite, it is remarkable that a Pantera fan and a couple death metal musicians can produce such different music. Again the superb artwork is by Arthur Berzinsh, the pictures of Vic's home town Riga in ruins capture perfectly the slightly more industrial feel of this new one and the theme of nuclear catastrophe which runs through the album. There is no such thing as a conventional Vic song, each one sways from the delicate to to the dynamic, taking you on voyage into the surreal Tim Burton esque world of her imagination, sometimes dark, sometimes playful, but always very cinematic and melodic. In perfect harmony Vic uses her wondrous tremulous voice to great effect, at times she sounds evil, manic, soulful, childlike, seductive, vulnerable, etc. etc.. After a very brief mechanised intro we open with the awesome symphonic/industrial rock of 'More Than You Can Comprehend', which reminds me of 'The World Is Not Enough' (Garbage), setting the tone for this album which has a more consistent sound and style than her first. She blends serious songs with the more wacky, if you are due to go to the dentist don't listen to 'Open Wide', by the time you sit in the chair you will be a nervous wreck, especially after the final shriek. The moody magnificent 'Horizon' has an anthemic chorus, then 'Wellspring' is a gorgeous emotional symphonic piano ballad, followed by another fun but fiery song, the wonderfully titled 'Bone's Blues' which is appropriately bluesy. The sublime soaring 'Ashes' is simply glorious, 'Secrets of the Universe' is dramatic, and then fitting in with the more industrial sound the album features her first cover version, Das Ich's 'Das Dunkle Land' (The Dark Country) which sounds far more melodic and mischievous in her hands. The final two, 'In The Darkness' and 'The Day', are the suitably haunting, poignant and compelling, ending the album on a reflective note. You also get four charming acoustic bonus tracks featuring just Vic and her delightful piano playing, including a passionate version of Antimatter's 'Leaving Eden'. This is an album of incredible imagination from the whole team, with wonderful sounds and instrumental flourishes. Anyone who enjoys the more intelligent and creative side of pop and rock will love this, her website is here, a magical 9.5/10 (Phil).

ARVEN..'MUSIC OF LIGHT'

(Massacre Records) Reviewed 4th September 2011

On the quest to find female musicians who can bring her songs to life, guitarist Anastasia found Ines and Lena, two students of music, who are now playing guitar and keyboards in Arven. The classically trained singer Carina then appeared on the scene and last but not least, the bassist Lisa plus drummer Till staked their places in the band. They then sign to Massacre Records and yay, the rest is history as they say! On this their debut album, Arven unite heavy guitar-riffs, double-bass passages and headbanging parts with an enchanting and operatic voice, beautiful melodies and delightful orchestra instruments. To be honest, this album should be up the alleyway of anybody into the female fronted genre that likes their music heavy, tuneful and with folky elements at times. Opener 'Music of Light' (the title track) incorporates awesome violin and is a mid paced Folk/Metal tune of the highest calibre. 'On Flaming Wings' is a more up tempo number, with subtle Progressive influences and an awesome chorus. The Folk influences re emerge on 'Raise Your Cups', with the flute putting in an appearance on this track. What I like about this record is that every track is different, incorporating the violin, flute, piano, plus your normal instrumentation and orchestration that you associate with the Symphonic Metal genre. However, despite repeated plays, my fave track seems to be 'Til Death Do Us Part', a great tune with a chorus to boot! I like that number very much. This is a sure winner from the Massacre stable and is well worthy of a 8.75/10 (Dave)

AKRIBI..'BLACK MORNING SUN'

(Jymden Music) Reviewed 24th August 2011

The first thing that strikes you about this début from the Swedish band is GOOD GRIEF! these guys can play, guitarists David Lidell and André Berntsson, Andreas Tiberto on keys, Alexander Bringsoniou on bass/Chapman Stick, and drummer Tony McWilliams, the very epitome of akribi, a Greek term which means accuracy and attention to detail. Their powerful sound lies somewhere between Ayreon, To-Mera, Dream Theatre and Henning Pauly (Roswell Six etc.), a nice blend of technicality and accessibility, there is always a great tune at the heart of the complexity, with plenty of diversity within the sophisticated song structures giving light and shade, when they rock, struwth, can they rock, but they can also soothe you with the sublime. Lesser singers would get lost in the maelstrom, but lovely Jessica Åhman has a dynamic, dramatic, deep, dulcid rock voice that towers above the assemblage. The noodling is kept under strict control and to the point, leaning heavily towards fascinating constructive instrumentals and away from mindlessly going up and down the scales, perfectly exemplified by the instrumental 'Blue Clay' where the lads show off their chops while Jessica has a cup of tea. Key features are Andreas's keyboards, he can really tickle those ivories, and drummer Tony does a good impersonation of a human octopus, he can most certainly rattle those skins with incredible skill and sensitivity, sadly he's just left, probably paradiddled himself into oblivion. In amongst the immense slam dunks are a couple of gorgeous lighter numbers, 'Angel Kiss' (lovely title) and 'The Plains of Nevermore', that show off the wonderful tonal quality of Jessica's voice and her delightful upper register, crikey, can this this girl sing, she's two singers in one. Other highlights include the appropriately flowing rippling 'Carry the Rain' with it's mighty refrain, the soaring symphonic closer and tile track 'Black Morning Sun', the bump and grind of 'Wither and Die' where Jessica really lets rip, and the cracking opener and curiously titled 'Puppies of War' (video on Female Voices blog). By the way, If you're wondering what a Chapman Stick is, it's a ten string instrument that looks like an oversized fretboard, you tap the strings with the fingers of both hands enabling you to do bass lines and lead guitar work at the same time. This is premier league prog metal immaculately recorded with impeccable sound, plus you get the added X factor of Jessica's amazing voice. So if you like your metal prog, powerful but melodic then you will already be heading off into the black morning sun for a copy at CD Baby, their website lies here, a precision engineered 9/10 (Phil)

THE BIRTHDAY MASSACRE..'IMAGINARY MONSTERS' EP

(Metropolis Records) Reviewed 22nd August 2011

I love The Birthday Massacre, and this is another band (HIM and Within Temptation being others) that I have been into long before anybody else in the UK had heard of them. Without further ado, the first three tracks here are typical TBM fare, although 'Left Behind' to my ears doesn't really quite get going. The remaining five tracks are remixes of numbers from the excellent 'Pins and Needles' record. I think the best is left til last...the rather excellent remix of 'Shallow Grave' by Assemblage 23. However. I feel that this release will do little to convert potential new fans to their cause, those fans perhaps best check out their last album, the aforementioned 'Pins and Needles' or indeed, the 'Show and Tell' live cd. This is a good album nonetheless..8.25/10 (Dave)

BLUE DAWN..S/T

(Black Widow) Reviewed 13th August 2011

Italian Band Blue Dawn was formed in 2009 by experienced Genova musicians Andrea Di Martino (drums) and Enrico Lanciaprima (bass @ clean male vox). They then quickly recruited vocalist Monica Santo and went through a series of auditions to find a guitarist after their original choice, ‘La Faci’ was forced to leave, due to heath issues. This their debut album, consists of 10 tracks of what I would call Classic Rock with a subtle Prog undercurrent, that occasionally rises to the surface in it's full glory. Opener ‘Crossing The Acheron’ is a semi pompous orchestral intro that leads us into 'The Hell I Am', that not only showcases front lady Monica's vocals to a tee, it gives the punter an idea of the path Blue Dawn is treading, a late 70's - 1980's mainly mid paced plodding metal. 'Inner Wounds' is a slower track, but still with the emphasis on an 80's sound, which to me is unusual for an Italian Band, as many bands from there tend to concentrate on the Gothic or Symphonic style of music. And I think it is the band's style, that makes them stand out from the rest of the Italian crowd. This release is a consistent one with some awesome musicianship, including some great guitar from their axeman Paolo Cruschelli. This guy can play. Other tracks worth a mention are 'Shattered Illusions' and 'In My Room', the latter for some reason reminds me a little of Toyah/Siouxsie vocally in the chorus! Closer 'Deconstructing People' with it's cool sax and accordion, is quite interesting too and worth the wait! You have to sit down and appreciate this album, but if Metal Music with late 70's or 1980's influences, plus some prog thrown into the blender for good measure, tickles your fancy, this band is worth checking out here. 8.5/10 (Dave)

ASHENTIDE..S/T EP

(Self Release) Reviewed 5th August 2011

Ashentide, fronted by Lenore Young is a symphonic metal band from Los Angeles, California and this is their 3 track debut 16+ minute EP, which hopefully will showcase what is to come should these guys and gals record a full length album. I say hopefully, as the three tracks here offer up a cool dose of Melodic Symphonic Metal in the style of Nightwish and the like, and I would love to hear more from this band as and when. Mainland Europe would love Ashentide, and so do I. Their Facebook is here and the music can be purchased from cdbaby. Check them out..8.75/10 (Dave)

BARE INFINITY..'THE PASSAGE' EP

(Label to be announced) Reviewed 5th August 2011

Greek Metal Band Bare Infinity play a type of atmospheric power metal combining the lovely Angel's Power, Opera and Brutal Vocal talent, with dynamic and sorrowful melodies through the keyboards and guitars, that dominate the bands sound. Bare Infinity should be taking the genre by storm, and his EP to be frank offers up five tracks of prime top class Symphonic Metal, that showcase Angel's vocals to a tee, and prove to me that this band should be in the Premier League of this style of music. Totally awesome and I will not bother to go into each individual track as they are all good. However, I do currently have a fave, and that is the gorgeously melodic title track. This has to be bought when it appears on Aug 26th, with fans of Nightwish and Delain lapping this up. Check out their facebook. Although there is interest, this band has currently not got a label...I am shocked, they should have been snapped up by a major ages ago.!! 9/10 (Dave)

A NEW DAWN..'SEVEN FACES OF TRUTH'

(Self Released) Reviewed 7th July 2011

Dutch Rockers A New Dawn are on a roll with this their 2nd full length release. And what a corker it is. I always maintain that this band do not deliver the instant fix, but give their music a few listens, and the fix will come. And 'Seven Faces Of Truth' is no exception. A cracking album that kicks off with the brief intro 'My Name Is Dawn', before the slightly Iron Maidenesque riff sounding 'Contradiction' fires it's way out of the speakers, with the grunts of Mike Van Den Heuvel a perfect compliment to the vocals of both Jamila Ifzaren and Alysia Van Horik. Indeed, this vocal interplay is an important part of A New Dawn's sound throughout the album, and without Mike, it would not be A New Dawn! There are also three numbers here from the EP 'Finally' that was released last year that have in-fact been re-recorded. Those songs being 'Desire', 'Masque of the Red Death' and 'Final Verdict', the re-recording giving these songs added depth. The band also has the habit of slowing it down wonderfully well, just listen to 'Prelude To A Farewell (Part II)'. Faves? I have listened to the album a few times and the awesome and complex 'Theatre Of Fears' seems to be the winner in that respect. This album is damn good and it will receive distribution via Ravenheart Music at a date to be confirmed. Check out their website - www.anewdawnband.nl/. And one more thing, having seen them live in the UK last Autumn, they are well worth the money. This album is not the instant fix, it's a grower but well worthy of a 9/10 (Dave)

AGAINST MYSELF..'SKY ASHES'

(Self Release) Reviewed 5th July 2011

From Spain comes this young formation led by their lovely singer Irene Villegas who is just 18 years old. Their modus operandi is the sort of light symphonic gothic metal/rock I normally associate with British bands like Apparition and Winter in Eden. They present a wide variety of hugely attractive and melodic songs on their well produced and excellently sounding début album. Grand symphonic opener Desert's Legend conjures up images of Laurence of Arabia riding over the sand dunes on his camel (I don't like riding camels, they always give me the hump), and several songs feature nicely done authentic sounding orchestral segments. Title track 'Sky Ashes' continues the symphonic metal theme, then comes the catchy lively 'The Dream' followed by the melodic rock 'Remember'. 'My Life is Yours' takes us back into grand symphonic metal, before we are calmed by the gentle piano and voice ballad 'After the Storm'. The galloping 'Lilith (Mother of Vampires)' flies towards power metal, but the pièce de résistance is the gorgeous 'My Own Fate', a song the Moody Blues would be proud of. The album ends in fine style with the heaviest and most epic number 'Diary of Tears' complete with keyboardist Agustín Moya growling ferociously and guitarist Carlos Carretón taking the opportunity to have a good shred. Irene has a pure semi-operatic voice that sounds most delightful when she uses vibrato, not surprisingly given her tender years she can be a little uncertain at times, but she will grow with confidence and experience. This is the sort of music I personally can listen to until it comes out my ears, a most enjoyable album for fans of light symphonic rock/metal, their website is here, an attractive 8.5/10 (Phil).

ARMONIGHT..'SUFFERING AND PASSION'

(Self Released) Reviewed 30th June 2011

Armonight hail from Italy and is fronted by a lass who goes by the name of Sy. The music on offer on this superb little platter? Well if you like Within Temptation and Nightwish, this should go down a storm in your household. 10 tracks of hideously catchy melodic Symphonic Metal. Kicking off with 'Revenge', a brief intro, this then leads directly into 'Past Shadows' and that lays the cards on the table quite plainly. The music drives along very nicely indeed, with the keys a driving force amongst the songs on offer. Third track in, 'Free Spirits' is another melodic belter, and although Armonight can be compared to Nightwish et al, they do have a sound of their own, especially with Sy at the helm. There are a host of corking tunes here, particular faves being 'Yellow Flowers' and 'I Lost My Serenity', although they may change after future listens. This record is good, very good so check the band out at their myspace. One more thing - they tour here in August.....9/10 (Dave)

ALYSON AVENUE..'CHANGES'

(Avenue of Allies) Reviewed 27th June 2011

Few people had ever heard of this Swedish group until their singer joined that Finnish bunch, errm, what's their name, oooh arrh, you know, ummm, Dayhope, no, urrm, Morningwant, no no, it's on the tip of my tongue, ah yes, I remember now, Nightwish. After temporarily enlisting a gentleman they have now recruited Arabella Vitanc for this appropriately titled new album. You will not be shocked to learn that Arabella has a voice not too dissimilar to Anette Olzon who crops up on backing vocals. First track 'Liar' fools you into thinking that they have gone all Nightwish pop metal but second track 'Will I Make Love', a duet with Michael Bormann who's sung with more bands than Gene Simmons has had groupies, settles them back into their familiar Heart/Bon Jovi melodic hard rock. I hate the term AOR, it makes it sound as if it's only for middle aged accountants with 2.4 children, rather like MOR. This is a band that does not want to reinvent the wheel, but simply want to keep you entertained with a series of catchy rockers mainly written by keys man Niclas Olsson that feature meaty production, crunchy guitars, twinkling keyboards, big choruses and even bigger hair. However, to be fair none of the band have perms. and musically if its good enough for the some of the planet's biggest selling groups then if it ain’t bust, don't fix it. This is the sort of album that used to sell by the tanker load but is now seen as slightly quaint, it's funny how some music comes in and out of fashion, although Within Temptation have just a very modern twist on 80's rock. Apart from the opening twosome, faves include the anthemic 'Amazing Days', the more Heart than Heart 'Don't Know If Love Is Alive', and the soaring 'I Will Be Waiting'. The one thing that surprises me is the lack of a lighter waving ballad which is normally a must have, probably because smoking is now banned everywhere, you can't wave a nicotine patch very effectively. If you fancy some great melodic rock, or merely curious, it can be addictive, head to their website by clicking here, a solid rocking 8.5/10 (Phil)

BELLADONNA..'AND THERE WAS LIGHT'

(Self Release) Reviewed 19th June 2011

Italians Belladonna's Rock Noir style continues with this their latest release. 'The Noir Album' was rather addictive, but the band has upped the ante with this little offering, that continues in the same style, and remains highly addictive as well. I very much like Luana's vocals that do give this band their distinctive sound. Some catchy ditties amongst the 20 tracks on offer, one of my faves being 'Stiletto' which I believe has caused a stir on one or two radio stations in the USA. I also found the awesomely atmospheric ballad 'I Feel Life' started to hammer it's way into my head after a couple of spins. Lovely stuff! There is a lot of good music on here, in the bands own kinda style, including 'Song For Tania' and 'Be My Star', these being other fave tunes on this record and as a consequence, for any good music lover, this album is sure worth getting your hands on. Pop onto cdbaby, see the light and make a purchase! A good effort by one of Europe's top unsigned bands... 8.5/10 (Dave)

AKIN..'THE WAY THINGS END'

(Self Release) Reviewed 19th May 2011

This French band were formed in 1998 and were for a time serious contenders in the gothic metal firmament with the likes of Within Temptation, The Gathering and Epica, releasing the highly acclaimed album Verse in 2001, but then after the EP Forecast in 2003 they vanished except for singer Adeline Gurtner who sang with the black metal outfit Akroma for a while. Now they are back with a new album, a new style and a string quartet. They have taken their love of nu prog and augmented it with their original gothic metal sound and then added some 70's classic prog and 80's new prog to create something totally original, a mix of Renaissance, Camel, Kansas, The Reasoning and The Gathering is the closest I can get without over complicating the matter, I could come up with a list a mile long and still not hit the nail on the head, they are akin to so many but totally distinctive. The result is a work of harmonious contrasts, after all they say that opposites attract, a jazzy liveliness but with a melancholy gothic underbelly; delicate subtlety and driving power; catchy and melodic but with technical musicianship; adventurous, fascinating and absorbing but oh so easy to listen to; acoustic and electronic instrumentation; simplicity and sophistication; light and dark. Adaline with her pure clear voice does an incredible job giving them a touch of the Corrs, she deals perfectly with diminished, augmented and 7ths that would destroy a lesser singer, and the performances from the lads are exemplary, especially Matt Baker's fluid guitar leads, Luc Babut's Jon Camp esque bass work and Romain Fayet's's skilled drumming, all with impeccable production and sound. The string quartet and Philippe Chauvire's flute are an integral part of the sound and not just bolted on as an afterthought. There is a lot of imagination gone into the songs, for example some lovely poetry readings by Tom O'Bedlam (whose readings have had nearly four million hits on Youtube) and the use of some unusual instruments like Indian percussion. Although made up of 15 individual songs, this is an album that is best listened to as a complete homogeneous whole which allows all their facets to shine through, so I'm not going to pick out songs, just enjoy the complete experience. They have obviously spend the intervening years honing their craft. This is an album than will appeal to lovers of prog and gothic rock and metal alike, or anyone that enjoys high quality music. Their Facebook is here, and it can be bought from their Bandcamp. I certainly hope that is not the way things end and this album sees them enjoying the success they deserve, a highly recommended 9/10 (Phil)

ARKONA...'STENKA NA STENKU' EP

(Napalm Records) Reviewed 14th May 2011

The beginnings of ARKONA date back to 2002, when members of local pagan community "Vyatichi", Masha "Scream" Arhipova and Alexander "Warlock" Korolyov, decided to form a band that mirrored their individual philosophy and musical tastes. The band, at the time still known as Hyperborea, comprised Masha "Scream" Arhipova (vocals), Eugene Knyazev (guitar), Eugene Borzov (bass), Ilya Bogatyryov (guitar), Alexander "Warlock" Korolyov (drums), and Olga Loginova (keyboard), but it wasn’t until February 2002 that ARKONA surfaced from the depths of Russia’s underground scene. Fast forward to 2011 and the band that continues to revolve around charismatic front lady Masha Scream, present the MCD 'Stenka Na Stenku'. This nearly 25 minute long offering includes a new track from the upcoming album, as well as 5 exclusive non-album tracks to wet your appetite. The opening number and title track delivers one of the band's most melodic and memorable tracks ever, while staying true to their highly acclaimed and expected trademark sound. The accoustic version of 'Goi, Rode, Goi' is an atmospheric number, that I can see in my mind being sang in front of the camp fire, being followed by the hideously catchy 'Skai' (featuring guest musician Freki of Germany's Varg) which should bring the headbanger out in many of us. Closer 'Noviy Mir' meanwhile, is fast becoming a fave of mine! This Russian band is highly original, highly special, a little different, and this 6 track EP is well worth checking out, 8.5/10 (Dave)

ACTION REPLAY..'BURNING IN ICE'

(Self Release) Reviewed 11th May 2011

Action Replay is a female fronted Melodic Hard Rock Band based in Birmingham (UK), fronted by the powerful and pleasing vocals of Aimee (who also plays rhythm guitar). The four tracks on offer on this EP are intricately written, accessible and very melodic, and would please the hard rock/melodic rock fan out there. The title track kicks thing off, and is a bouncy little number with great guitar work from Matt Draycott. 'Dark Days' is another catchy tune, and it becomes apparent the hard work that this band is putting in. 'Caught Between Us' is a slower but powerful number, and it is equally as awesome as the opening duo, with Aimee and the band putting in a great performance as they do throughout the whole of the record - beautiful guitar solos, pounding drum beats and articulated bass parts. Closer 'Cut You Down' maintains the momentum, and leaves you wanting more. I would suggest that one cuts through the ice to their facebook site and check them out. This is pretty good stuff! 8.5/10 (Dave)

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