Reviews

A NEW DAWN..'FALLING FROM GRACE'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 19th April 2009

Once started as a side-project in 2005, nowadays A New Dawn is solid band with their own view on how to make metal. Gothic is just a fragment of the music A New Dawn makes. They add a lot of heavy metal, some prog, a bit of thrash and a few drops of soul. The result is called: "Double Female Fronted Metal". Fronted by Sanne Kluiters and Jamila Ifzaren, the band combine classical with pop singing and there’s also deep grunts to add to the mix. And the band has shared the stage with bands like Delain, Battlelore, Autumn, After Forever, Epica, Headhunter and Holy Moses. So what about the music on 'Falling From Grace'?. It is a little gem and I continually remain gobsmacked at the quality of music that the Scandinavians and the Dutch throw at us. The CD was actually released in May 2008 but has only just entered Ravenheart Towers. This is what I call a good dose of metal, but never short of a spoonful of melody. Check out 'Darkness Falls' as an example. Other faves of mine are 'Kissed Goodbye' - heavy, melodic and awesome, and 'Victimless Tragedy'! Good stuff on offer here and it has to be said that the quality of music from the femme metal genre remains high, despite what some critical reviewers in one or two quarters may be saying. From my point of view, 'Falling From Grace' is well worth checking out...8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

ABACAY.. 'VICTIMS OF CIRCUMSTANCES'

(Whiterock Records) Reviewed 30th January 2010

Abacay are a duo from Germany comprising keys maestro Miles D. Torrance and the angelic Melany Morganstern, with her delectable soft whispering voice that caresses your ears like a gentle kiss. In case you’re wondering, Abacay is a made up word, but I was in a band called Aborom, which secretly stood for ‘Another Bunch of Randy Old Men’, so who knows! This is ten slices of delightful, danceable, pop/electro/rock, the missing link between Natalie Imbruglia and the Pet Shop Boys, full of lovely keyboard and guitar flourishes, and a subtle undertone of electronica. It is hard to pick out favourites, all the songs would make excellent single choices, but to give you an idea, ‘Dry’ builds into a real dance floor filler, lead single ‘Guitar Girl’ is wonderfully singalong, and ‘Nothing’ is a moody rocker. If you love top class pop/rock, or a metalhead who fancies a change, then I cannot recommend this highly enough. Available from their Myspace site, www.myspace.com/abacay. 9/10 (Reviewed by Phil)

ABIGAIL'S MERCY..'SALVATION'

(Crooked House Productions) Reviewed 11th November 2007

Hailing from Staffordshire here in the UK, Abigail's Mercy seem to mix old gothy standards, almost with a 70's vibe, together with modern trends. I suppose you could call their style of music Dark Melodic Metal. Melodic most certainly as there is enough here to keep your feet tapping. They mix male (clean) and female vocals courtesy of Steve and Lindsey, coupled with a twin guitar attack. If one could imagine I suppose The Sisters Of Mercy mixed with perhaps Lacuna Coil...well that sums it up quite nicely. Some good stuff here notably the attention grabbing opener 'To Hell With Angels', 'Meaningless', 'Cloud Dancer' and 'The Truth'. Live with this cd as it may not grab you first listen, but after successive plays, it will! This may be a late review, the cd first appeared in September 2005, but my original copy was loaned to someone who is now in Australia and the cd was not given back. So the band sent me a new copy CD/DVD combo (Thanks Terry). The DVD features 'To Hell With Angels' and 'Cloud Dancer', and is pretty cool in it's own right. A good overall effort 7.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave).

ABSINTHE.. 'CHAPTER ONE: URBAN FAIRYTALES'

(Alkemist Fanatix, UK Division, Code 7) Reviewed 13th October 2009

Absinthe (great name) are a young new wave/indie/alt rock band from Milan, Italy very much in the mould of Paramore and Hey Monday. They are fronted by Sara Frusciante who has a strong pop voice. Sadly, she has just left the band, so if anyone fancies a job? This is a collection of 13 very commercial power pop/rock songs. Favourites include ‘Something’, ‘Blind the Sun’, both of which are very catchy and feature cheesy Farfisa organ, and the ballad ‘Say’. The bonus track, the semi acoustic ‘Limpido’, has an atmospheric vibe, and I would love to see the band explore this side more. All in all a really good listen for power pop fans. Signed copies are available on their Myspace site, www.myspace.com/absinthemilan 8/10 (Reviewed by Phil)

ACELDAMA..'SEDUCE, DECEIVE AND LEAD ASTRAY'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 6th March 2009

Wow...this band is from Birmingham here in the UK, just a stones throw from Ravenheart Towers. Fronted by the cool sounding Leanne, Aceldama simply rock and they set out from the start to create songs that incorporate atmospheric harmonies and infectious hooks. Opener 'Dinosaurs' bludgeons it's way into your head like a heard of Dinosaurs, while 'Do It Again' keeps up the tempo! Other faves to my ears on this record include, 'Fable' , the slower paced 'Forgotten' the atmospheric 'Weak' and the catchy 'The Last Time' which starts off with a nice accoustic intro. This record is hard rocking, so don't expect gothic operatics here. Anyway, Aceldama have set their sights on the whole of the UK, and introduce the nation to their infectious grooves! At this rate, I think that perhaps the world should sit up and take notice of these infectious grooves. Check out www.myspace.com/aceldamabham and make a purchase! 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

ACT 3..'PRINCESS TRAGEDY'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 18th March 2009

What a great little release we have here. ACT 3 are from Sweden, which still begs the question..."what do the Scandinavians put in their water?" This is a super little gothic metal release by a band that has taken us here at Ravenheart Towers by storm. Even my partner in crime Aimee is gobsmacked! We absolutely love the five tracks on offer here on this EP, from the opener 'Princess Tragedy' (love the brief string intro) to the closing track 'Memories', which is a bonus track so it says on the sleeve. The music is heavy, catchy and totally awesome and it plods along at a decent pace. Also, the vocals of Lina are really cool - no operatic warblings here I hasten to add? All I want to say really is take a trip to www.myspace.com/act3sweden and BUY IT! It is not expensive and you will be helping a band that we at Ravenheart Music totally support! Great stuff - totally, and we cannot wait for a full release as and when!! ...9/10 (Reviewed by Dave and Aimee)

A.D.D..'ELEMENTS OF EMPTINESS'

(Femme Metal Records) Reviewed 4th February 2009

On the 27th Sept 2006, I reviewed an EP by this band. The EP was called 'Elements Of Emptiness', and Margaret Young's vocals blew me away! That release from 2006 has kinda been re released with four new cuts making it a full blown album. And the music on offer remains totally awesome, and those vocals! I said in my review from 2006 that this band deserved to be signed. Well it seems someone may have been listening, as the new Femme Metal Record label here in the UK has done just that. As a consequence, the record will hit the stores on the 10th Feb. Every cut on this release including the unreleased tracks, 'Vacant', 'Too Late', 'Don't Say' and 'Letting Go' have what it takes to make a good record. Heaviness, melody and awesome vocals. This is a good record so take a trip to www.femmemetalstore.net and BUY! 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

A D D..'ELEMENTS OF EMPTINESS'

(Independent release) Reviewed 27th Sept 2006

Another bunch of musicians which should be signed but ain't!! This is a seven track MCD from this American band (their second recording), and it rocks BIG time. Kicking off with 'The Path', and being followed by the hard rocking anthem 'Maybe'. The cd doesn't let up as it steamrollers it's way through nearly half an hour of melodic hard rock mayhem. I love Margaret Young's vocal style, reminds me a bit of the Guano Apes. Fine effort..get it from cdbaby.com...8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

ADASTREIA..'THAT WHICH LIES WITHIN'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 4th December 2007

I have seen Adastreia live on a few occasions, the last being at The Underworld in London, which was also keyboard player Hilary Towsey's last gig with the band. 'That Which Lies Within' is not the sort of album to chill out too with your wife or girlfriend, while enjoying a romantic evening in with a bottle of wine! However, this cd is a metallic feast that has left me totally bewildered as to why this band is NOT signed. Adastreia with the right backing could very easily challenge their European mainland counterparts. After a short instrumental intro, 'In Stillness' explodes from the speakers like a turbo charged express train. And the album does not let up until the very end, when the train decides to stop. Then you wanna take the journey again! And by the way, what a track it is to end the album.'A New Light' kicks in with a techno style intro that would not be out of place in a dance club. Then the heavy guitars arrive, and away we go. In-fact the track 'A New Light' is one of the best 7+ minutes of music committed to cd this year, and I defy anybody to disagree with me on that. Alexandra Martin's vocals may well be compared to the awesome Tarja (ex Nightwish), but when the music is this good, to be perfectly honest, I don't give a toss! This is great stuff, very heavy and melodic..enough said!! 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

ADYTA..'ROSE OF MELACHOLY'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 3rd June 2009

I interviewed Joakim from Adyta a while back. A very hard working musician so it seems, and I have full admiration for guys and gals like him that work really hard, in a business that sometimes must seem cruel. Anyway, here is an EP that the guy has recorded, and the female vocalist for this EP is none other than Melissa Ferlaak, former Visions of Atlantis and Aesma Daeva singer. Kicking off with the impressive short instrumental 'Ab Exilio (Prologue)', the cd moves swiftly onto 'The Ophidian's Tongue', which is an untempo, symphonic and heavy song featuring the awesome vocals of Melissa, together Joakim's brutal growls, that by the way compliment the music well. Next one up is 'Rose of Melancholy' starting rather serenely with a piano and guitar solo, before Melissa's vox get the song going, again accompanied with Joakim's growls. The quieter and more sedate 'Gjennom Tiden' moves this little opus along quite nicely, while the cd closes with 'Of A Captive Mind', which again features the dual vocal attack. This is an awesome offering, and deserves your support. Check out www.myspace.com/adyta 7.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

AESMA DAEVA..'DAWN OF THE NEW ATHENS'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 12th November 2008

After enlisting the help of Grammy award-winning producer Neil Kernon, (Hall and Oats, Queensryche, Nevermore), Aesma Daeva (a symphonic metal band from Minnesota, United States) have released their fourth album, titled 'Dawn of the New Athens'. From the opening salvo of 'Tisza's Child' and 'The Bluish Shade' to closing track 'The Loon', this album is so so captivating, using world instruments such as the bawu (a Chinese flute-like instrument), blending this with a symphonic rock backdrop, bringing a wealth of musical cultures together. Couple this with the amazing operatic vocals of Lori Lewis and the intricate harmonies by members of Rose Ensemble and Vocal Essence, both professional choral groups from Minneapolis, and boy, does this record sound good. Okay, do not expect a wealth of hooks here, but what we have is a lyrically sophisticated album. Aesma Daeva have toured with Therion amongst others, and it belies belief that they are unsigned. But do take a trip to www.myspace.com/aesmadaeva and check them out. If I was asked for a fave track, maybe I would go for 'Since The Machine'. However, all the tracks here are good, and my favourite track will no doubt change on subsequent listens. This is a very good release and I must recommend our readers to check it out! 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave) - I just want to add a footnote here: Their EP, 'The Thalassa Mixes' is a haunting release featuring three re mixed tracks from 'Dawn of the New Athens', and well worth checking out too!

AFTER FOREVER..'AFTER FOREVER'

(Nuclear Blast) Reviewed 16th March 2007

If you are an After Forever fan, this cd will leave you wanting more. If you are not an After Forever fan, but are reading this review, may we suggest you become one. This self titled opus rocks from start to finish in that familiar After Forever fasion, with FloorJansen's recognisable vocals, and the harsh male vocals of Sander Gommans. Kicking off with 'Discord', the album starts the way it means to go on.The cd is hard, it's heavy, mixing metal, progressive, operatics, orchestral and touches of Industrial too. 'Energize Me' is a catchy poppy 3 min + ditty (the shortest track on the cd), a possible hit single if ever I heard one. 'Equally Destructive' follows, a heavier track but still a foot tapper. 'Cry With A Smile' and album closer and rather excellent 'Empty Memories' are the album's ballads, while track 11 provides us with the 11 minute + 'Dreamflight'. To summarise, the cd is heavy and gothy, well what more do you want. Theband have been 10 years in the business, they have a new label and new producation team, but it's typical After Forever. Go and buy on April 23rd. You will not be disappointed! 8/10 (Reviewed by Aimee)

AGATE..'BLACK SOUL'

(Agate Music) Reviewed 25th February 2010

Norwegian band Agate was formed in 2004 by Mira Birkelid (vocals/keyboard) and Rune Torgersen (vocals/bass), as a pop-rock project. The band has continually been developing their music in order not to fall into a certain genre. As Agate has worked on their sound, they have been mixing up different musical genres, like classic, folk and oriental music, prog, gothic, hard rock and metal. In doing so, they have managed to create a unique piece of work, 'Black Soul' that they can truly call their own. There are some great songs on this six track cd, that runs at around 42 minutes. Despite the lengthy tracks, my interest was maintained until the very end by the sheer variation of music on offer. An orcestral/synth/guitar intro kicks off the great opener 'Gone', Mira offering a kinda pop/rock vocal style, with none of the operatics that can be associated with some female fronted bands. Great keys and guitars throughout, with the lass proving that she is not just an able singer, she can tickle those ivories too. Next up 'Losing My Faith' features vocal interplay (as other tracks do) between Mira and Rune and continues a very melodic and slightly progressive theme - a superb and touching song in-fact. 'Angel Of Mercy' keeps up the good work featuring Rune this time on vocals, but again we see awesome keyboard work from Mira on this quirky tune! 'Is It Right' is a slower number, while 'Time' maintains the rather cool musicianship that is apparent throughout 'Black Soul' - great guitar and synths on 'Time' as well. The final track, and the title track at that kicks off with chiming bells, keys, synths and crunching guitars, I am in heaven! This track powers along, and when the cd ends, you wanna play it again - well I did! Go to www.myspace.com/agatetheband 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

AGHONYA..'OXYGEN'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 4th July 2008

AghonyA fronted by Cati Victoria Torrealba hail from Chile, and 'Oxygen' is an amazingly strong release considering there is no real label support here. Melodic Gothic Metal with subtle touches of Electronica is how I would describe this record, and anybody that likes After Forever, Evanescence or Within Temptation will do no wrong here when it comes to parting with your hard earnt cash. I mentioned After Forever, and I must say I find stunning similarities between 'Lead Me Into You' from 'Oxygen' and 'Energize Me' from After Forever's self titled album from 2007. However, by and large, 'Oxygen' is an awesome album that has some very catchy songs including 'How Can I', a ballad 'One Last Lullaby' and crunching rockers including 'Finding Eternity'. Choruses here that you find will be swimming around inside your head for ages. Occasionally a release comes along that not only surprises me, it takes the wind out of my sails aswell. This is one such record - excellent production too. Take a trip to www.myspace.com/aghonya and find out for yourselves. Then get it! 9/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

AGNES..'WHEN THE NIGHT FALLS'

(Sony/BMG) Reviewed 25th January 2007

Agnes is another product from Finland. What is it they put in their water?. This cd is prime time modern melodic rock/aor, which includes amongst others, songwriting contributions from Joey Tempest (Europe) and Luke Morley (Thunder). 'When The Night Falls' consists of 11 catchy tracks, with a couple of ballads thrown in for good measure. Sony/BMG seem to be signing some good bands from Scandinavia at the moment, with the awesome Finnish all male band Carmen Gray also on their rosta. Actually combined, Carmen Gray and Agnes make the UK music scene seem very average indeed I am afraid to say, even rather pathetic. Anyway, go order 'When The Night Falls' from ST Records in Dudley (see links page). 8/10 (Reviewed by Laura)

AGNES Pihlava..'REDEMPTION'

(Scandal Music Company) Reviewed 1st November 2009

Finnish rock sensation Agnes released the awesome 'When The Night Falls' in 2007, and I believe that this was one of the years best sellers within the melodic rock genre. Now towards the end of 2009, Agnes Pihlava delivers us her new opus 'Redemption'. And this I must say carries on exactly where the previous release left off, and is a totally awesome slab of melodic hard rock that has brightened up a typically English November day. The opening salvo of 'Own Two Feet' and 'For Your Redemption' will give you an idea the direction this album is going. And all the tracks on 'Redemption' offer up some real cool tunes with great anthemic choruses, and I love the variety here too. Check out 'Wasn't It Enough' with it's awesome chorus, that is then followed by 'Maybe I was Wrong (Our Sweet Placebo)' which offers some real heavy riffs but still with a typically catchy chorus. 'In My Dreams' is a ballad with cool lyrics, and I am sure if it picked up airplay on UK radio, it would be a smash hit. 'You Believe Her' follows 'In My Dreams' and gets proceedings rocking again with yet another totally catchy chorus. 'Ready To Fall' is another catchy rocker that makes me aware what got me into this genre in the first place. I love it! Agnes is a Melodic Hard Rock Princess that demands your attention, and what she and her band have given us here is top drawer stuff. Another top seller? - it has to be, surely! Great stuff so BUY it!! 9.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave).

AKENTRA..'IV IV IV'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 31st May 2009

This EP is another slice of femme fronted rock/metal that has taken me by surprise. I am not even sure how I come across French band Akentra (www.myspace.com/akentra), fronted by the lovely and conventional sounding Lucia Ferreira, although I assume it was via myspace. Onto the music itself, and there are five gems on this release that spans 27 mins or so. By the way, there is a hidden accoustic track at the end, effectively giving us six tracks for our money. Kicking of with 'Do My Best', this song is as catchy as hell, and will appeal to the more melodic minded people amongst our throng, as will the whole EP in-fact. 'Daddy' follows, and although the title may suggest some soft ballad, this tune rocks, again with a catchy chorus and a crunch in the guitars dept. This cd has it all, songs with commercial appeal, cool musicianship particularly in the previously mentioned guitar department, with my fave song being 'Gimme Your Gun'. This EP is a taster for a full album due next year...I myself cannot wait. An excellent record worthy of 9/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

ALERION..'THE FLEDGLING'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 20th Sept 2007

Dave has given me this mini cd to review (my first for Ravenheart Music), as I was in a band (keyboards in FUKIT) who musically were similar to this lot! Alerion are a female fronted progressive/metal band (fronted by Romy Muste) from the Netherlands. They have been going for a little over two years. This is a 5 track album called 'The Fledgling'. There are quite a few influences on this cd, but it is certainly an album for fans who prefer their metal at the heavier end of the spectrum. I have heard the term gothic linked to this band. Female vocals yep, but gothic, no! Interestingly titled 'Hindsight 1976' gets the album away, which certainly sets the scene as to what is to follow. Great guitar riffs and bass work. OKay vocals too. 'Estrangement' though is a likeable and quiet instrumental, which then leads us into the awesome Ruins' which is a decent metal track. 'Dragnipur' is a storming favourite of mine (and Dave's too I believe). I just love the vocals on this track. The Megadeth cover of 'She Wolf' ends this decent independent effort! This band deserves your attention. As I say, perhaps not one for fans of AOR, but if you like Megadeth, Trivium or Dream Theatre (with the female vox obviously), then please check them out at http://www.myspace.com/alerion. This cd so happens to be a grower, so live with it and you will reap the rewards! 7.5/10 (Reviewed by Rachel).

ALERION..'TURN OF FATE'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 7th March 2009

A two track promo from our Dutch Friends Alerion. Rachel reviewed their debut effort in Sept 2007, and this little cd is not bad actually. Alerion combine Female Fronted (or Gothic) vocals, with a guitar-oriented, heavy and melodic sound, and I quite like Maaike's angelic vocal style. Track one, 'Turn of Fate' is a slow to mid pace song with progressive elements and a cool guitar solo mid song. The second track 'Clash With Eternity' is a slower quieter song that showcases Maaike's vocal style very nicely. Indeed, the musicianship on offer here is of a high quality, while Alerion typify a hard working band, and for this they receive my full admiration. I would like to hear more from this Dutch outfit in due course, but meanwhile check their site out http://www.alerion.nl . This little gem is only a promo, but 7.5/10 seems fair! (Reviewed by Dave)

ALEV..S/T

(Fastball/Sony/BMG) Reviewed 25th November 2008

ALEV is translated as "flame" in the Turkish language- and accordingly so, as the band's live show and studio recordings are quite literally, "on fire" with sonic flames that turn the common conventional styles of other bands into nothing more than smoke. Fronted by Alexandra Janzen, Alev's music is a tightrope walk, switching from raging heavy guitar riffs, to softer tones while lyrically aiming right for the heart. At the same time, they provide the listener with a mix of modern rock and alternative metal, with emotionally intelligent music and hooks, that quite simply captures the listeners attention. And from the outset on this, their second release, this is the case as 'Where Are You', 'Crawling Under' and 'My Cover' proves my point. The album continues in a similar style throughout, with some impressive stuff on offer here. Just listen to the awesome 'Unique', the superb 'On My Own' and 'Disconnected' for further proof. This record is a winner, it is on a major label, so go and buy! 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

ALICE SWEET ALICE..'FIRST LIGHT'

(Cauldron Soundwerx) Reviewed 5th September 2008

New England based Scott Martinez's band Alice Sweet Alice have been compared to the likes of Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd and The Doors for their hard-hitting rock and psychedelic tendencies, and Joy Division and My Bloody Valentine for their inspired use of the darkwave sonic spectrum. ASA's music is complex, yet intricately textured with dark overtones that synthesize their European and American influences, generating a sound which is both innovative and trademark. Songs vary from the serene to turbulent, with their use of acoustics, samples, electric guitar effects, and synth-composition. ASA’s music is enhanced with powerful presentations that combine both theater and raw energy. They are strictly speaking not Female fronted, but Ali Kat (keys and Synths) is in the band, and she does share vocal duties on occasion with Scott Martinez, two tracks actually fronted by Ali too. And my admiration goes to Scott for releasing this cd on his own label, after some let downs with Renaissance Records. 'First Light' is not bad...not bad at all (great production too), and I myself can hear touches of Pink Floyd as mentioned above, and even the Moody Blues in places too. My fave tracks are the opener 'Alone', 'With You, With Me', 'Blood Roses', 'What A Lonely Day' (great vox by Ali on this one), 'Geraldine' and the haunting 'Fallen Angel' (also sung by Ali). I would suggest surfing your way to www.cauldronsoundwerx.com. and consider placing an order - NOW. A cool release! 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

ALICE SWEET ALICE..''MOLOKO & ULTRAVIOLENCE'

(Cauldren Soundwerx) Reviewed 5th May 2009

Alice Sweet Alice (ASA) are newly based in Kansas City, and specialise in Psychogothic Darkwave. I admire musicians that work really hard and are commited to their cause and ASA are one such band. Fronted by Scott Martinez with a little help from Ali Kat, their music stirs up memories of Pink Floyd and even The Doors, more so on the tracks fronted by Scott. This, their second release like their first is not metal, but it sure is a decent slab of rock music. Do not expect an album here full of hooks and catchy choruses however, and I myself like to call this type of music 'thinking persons music'. 'These Old Shoes' kicks the cd off and is an uptempo little number featuring both Ali and Scott on vocals, while 2nd track in 'Synesthesia' has to my ears an 80s atmospheric style. A couple of my faves on the album however, have to be 'Flight of Tonight' showcasing Ali Kat's vocals to the fore, and 'It's My Time', a piano led ballad with strings attached, again feat Ali. Another fave track being 'Weeping Lily'. This is a good release, a kinda cd to chill out too, without chilling out too much. Get me drift? Check them out at www.myspace.com/asweetalice and then buy the cd. It gets released May 12th. 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

ALIGHT..'DON'T FEAR THE REVENGE'

(My Funeral Records) Reviewed 25th July 2009

Imagine the crunch of Metallica mixed with the electro capabilities of Theatre of Tragedy and latter day Theatres Des Vampires. Indeed, the track 'Your Bride' features Nell of Theatre of Tragedy. By and large we have a good little release on our hands here from Italian rockers Alight, fronted by Sabina. Seven tracks spanning a little over half an hour, and all offering up a dose of catchy melodic electro crunch. I like it! Kicking off with 'Disarmed' the record continues to move along at a steady pace with 'Revolution'. The aforementioned 'Your Bride' is one of my fave tracks here, but to be frank, they are all good on this little offering. Well worth checking out, and indeed, I would like to hear more from this band in due course. Cool...8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

ALL ENDS..S/T

(Gun/Sony BMG) Reviewed 28th July 2008

All Ends (pictured), is an alternative metal band from Gothenburg in Sweden, founded in 2003. It started as a side project of the In Flames guitarists Bjorn Gelotte and Jesper Stromblad. However, they are currently no longer playing with All Ends. The band are fronted by not one but two ladies of rock - Emma Gelotte and Tinna Karlsdotter. In the spring of 2005, Michael Hakansson took over bass duties and Fredrik Johansson took over guitar duties. In August 2005, Peter Mardklint joined the band as the second guitarist. The most notable feature of All Ends is the duet vocals provided by the two aforementioned female singers against a background of heavy melodies and riffs. This self titled cd hits you in the face from the off, kicking off with 'Still Believe' and it doesn't let out throughout. Great stuff including the power ballad 'Just A Friend'. Not only has this band kinda sneaked in under my radar, this great album has a UK release. Be prepared for a melodic metal onslaught...think Heart on speed =) BUY! 9/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

AMBERIAN DAWN..'RIVER OF TUONI'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 27th April 2008

Amberian Dawn is a new Finnish metal band. Their music is melodic, dramatic and powerful, with female classical vocals, compliments of Heidi Parviainen. All the members of Amberian Dawn have a quite long history as musicians too. Anyway, bearing in mind that the band are Finnish, a reference point for 'River Of Tuoni' is Tarja era Nightwish. This is a good debut offering, and although nothing jumps out and hits you between the eyes, it is a consistent effort. I mentioned the Nightwish connection and this is apparent throughout the album, especially on track four, 'Valkyries'. 'River Of Tuoni' will get a release on Ascendance Records in June, but there is nothing better than going directly to the band to get a copy, and that is exactly what I did. A good effort from a band that with their next release, may well threaten to break into the Premier League. One gripe however, 10 tracks of potentially epic metal, running in at only around 36 minutes. Could have been 10 minutes longer!. However, musically, I like it. 7.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave).

AMBERIAN DAWN..'THE CLOUDS OF NORTHLAND THUNDER'

(Ascendance Records) Reviewed 22nd June 2009

Amberian Dawn fronted by Heidi Parviainen are back. 'Clouds of Northland Thunder' is their latest assault and it is okay. Possibly a shade better than 'River of Tuoni', this latest release being polished but safe symphonic metal. 'He Sleeps In A Grove' kicks things off quite nicely, while 'Incubus' quickens the pace a little. Third one in 'Kokko - Eagle of Fire' keeps the momentum going with Tarja era Nightwish comparisons coming to the fore. Generally, this latest from these Finnish rockers is a consistent affair, with the slower 'Willow of Tears' being a fave track of mine. The album has been released on Ascendance Records (a femme fronted specialist label), who for some reason seem reluctant to send us here at Ravenheart any promos. This copy was borrowed from someone within the business who understands my frustration. Musically, not bad..7.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

ANADIES..'PREVAIL'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 30th October 2008

Fronted by Christy Lumberg, Anadies is a surprisingly good band that I have been familiar with for a while now, and I was highly impressed by their debut offering 'Formamentum'. And I am delighted to report that 'Prevail' carries on the good work. What I am not so delighted about is why this band remains unsigned. Anadies I am sure would go down a storm here in Europe, and I will be following their career with interest. Anyway, kicking off with 'Trials', this is a kick ass track that showcases Christy's vocal style to the full. Second track 'F.T' is one of my faves, a melodic gem while 'Visions' is an ear catching song with even a subtle touch of electronica mid song - cool! The record carries on in the same heavy melodic metallic style with minor diversions into prog-metal on occasion. Another fave of mine on an album chock full of little surprises is 'Unseen', and I would certainly advise anybody reading this review to check out www.myspace.com/anadies and then buy their album. Anadies also has an interview on this site, so if you wanna know more, check that out too. A very strong release we have here that would certainly give some of the bigger more well known bands a run for their money! Great stuff!! 9/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

ANDROID SOUL..'DISAPPOINTING PARADISE'

(PMM Records) Reviewed 19th October 2008

Android Soul is a new Dutch band on the scene, and I understand they are based in and around Rotterdam. They are fronted by Linda Aarts who sounds occasionally similar to Floor Jansen of After Forever fame. And indeed Linda has had singing lessons with Floor...now you know. Musically, I would place Android Soul into the progressive symphonic rock/metal category, and for a debut offering on a new label,'Disappointing Paradise' ain't bad. One of my faves on this record is 'The Butterfly Effect' which is an interesting symphonic metal track that I quite enjoyed. Other highlights include 'So Hard To Let You Go', the symphonic 'A Serpent's Sarcasm' and 'Glory Dies Anyway'. 'Disapponting Paradise' will appeal to fans of After Forever, Nightwish, Epica, Edenbridge and the like, so it is worth checking out by fans of the genre. Okay, this release may take two or three listens to sink in, but it will be worth it, as there is some interesting stuff on offer here. Check out their myspace site www.myspace.com/androidsoulmusic. 7.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

ANEMO..'SLOWBURN'

(City Canyon Records USA) Reviewed 11th December 2006

This cd is really cool, and what's more, Anemo are British, coming from the rock mecca of Brighton ('ohh errr'..comment from Dave). Anemo's sound combines rock forms with modern drumloops, featuring the edgy vocals and lyrics of vocalist Hazelle Woodhurst, together with the loopy and experimental keyboard layers and rock guitars of co-writers Kingsley Sage and surfing fanatic Matt Palmer. This cd would appeal to fans of Garbage, The Pretenders and I would even say Evanescence, as on one or two tracks, Hazelle does remind me a bit of Amy Lee (the excellent title track together with the danceable 'I Was Taken In' being prime examples to my ears). 12 tracks of music that goes from quiet ballad type material to harder rocking stuff, with a dash of goth!. And I just love the final track 'Hursh'. And I think clubland could pick up on some of the material on offer here too. Well why not!! This is a very pleasant discovery indeed. 7.5/10 (Reviewed by Aimee)

ANEMO..'STENTORIAN'

(City Canyon Records) Reviewed 7th December 2008

This band is top drawer, and you cannot get a better intro than that. Aimee reviewed their first cd 'Slowburn' on this site two years ago. On this their second release, Anemo serves up another tasty morsel of British rock. Featuring 11 new tracks, it's certainly DARKER, STRONGER and LOUDER than their first album. It has a more aggressive and live rock sound, and takes you on a journey through war zones, drug addiction, piracy and sibling rivalry. The superb 'Pray' kicks this album into motion, and the record doesn't let up until you hit the repeat button at the end. 'She's Not Me' is another fave, while 'Filthy Figure Skater' showcases Hazelle's voice wonderfully well, and what a great voice she has. Even reminds me a little of Pink on the odd occasion. Okay, I like Pink (yep I do), but if she is big, then so should Anemo be too. 'Anyway' slows it down, before the catchy accoustic sounding 'Shipping News' bursts out of the speakers. Other faves on this cd, and there are a few include 'Fives and Sixes' and the ballad 'Still', but I really ought to add that the whole record is good! This is strictly not metal, just a good indie sounding rock record. Check it out! 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

ANTI-M..'DAMAGE'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 11th May 2008

Anti-M are from California, and that is where the sun is always supposed to shine. And while I was reviewing this cd, the sun was shining here in the UK, with temperatures into the mid 20's Celcius. This is not the Beach Boys, but sure is good music to chill out too on a nice summer's evening with a glass of wine or two. If I was to make comparisons, let's mix The Gathering and Pink Floyd, throw in a little Within Temptation and mix it up a bit. Then add a little electronica, and away we go. The vocals are shared between Barbara Mosely, Ruston Slager and John Wardlaw. This is not metal, but it is pretty well produced atmospheric rock. I like most of the tracks on offer here, with 'Deep' possibly one of my faves, while 'Beautiful Babe' sounded a little like David Bowie. As I say, don't expect a full on aural assault, but nonetheless, it is well produced by the band and I like this offering. One gripe, it does go on a little too long. 17 tracks and 73 minutes - I did find my concentration wandering a bit after an hour! Nonetheless, these are hardworking musicians that deserve your support. And you do get your moneys worth - buy it from cdbaby. 7.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave).

APPARITION..'GHOSTS OF THE PAST - THE STORY SO FAR'

(Ravenheart Music) Reviewed 22nd October 2009

Here is a first. The Ravenheart Music website reviewing an album on the Ravenheart Label. But it has to be done, so here goes! Apparition is a band from Staffordshire here in the UK and they have been going since around 1997. Since then, this band has released the very good 'Drowned In Questions' album featuring Annabelle Harris on lead vox. Since the early days, there has been various comings and goings within their ranks (including vocals), with bassist David Homer so far the only original member, with Apparition in-fact very much his little baby. Now, here in the latter part of 2009, we see the young and vibrant Samantha Smallwood as their front lady, with the band hopefully going places. 'Ghosts Of The Past - The Story So Far' is basically what it says on the 'tin'. A retrospective look at the band's career so far, inc some new material featuring Samantha. And there is some good stuff on offer here - including two of my faves, 'The Pain Lives On' and 'The Path To Eternity'. Here is another first...a mini gig review within an album review. I saw Apparition live in London on Oct 19th as support to Tarja. The Islington Academy was rammed full, and Apparition have not before played to so many people. The band however, was totally awesome, playing some songs that are featured on this cd, and winning lots of new fans. Samantha sure kicks ass on stage and I am certain that she will take Apparition to places anew. She was recovering from a cold on the night too, but despite struggling a little towards the end of their gig, she pulled it off like a real pro. I like this band - obviously! So check out their myspace site www.myspace.com/apparitionworld and track down this cd, which is not available in the shops as yet. If you wanna know more about Apparition, email me or contact them via myspace. 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

ARAPACIS..'CONSEQUENCES OF DREAMS'

(Femme Metal Records) Reviewed 29th November 2009

A rather interesting album from Canadian band Arapacis, and to be frank, I am not quite sure what to make of it. Let's just say that this will not hit you right away and is going to take a few spins to get used too. 'Consequences of Dreams' also seems to fly off in various directions, and at times it all seems a little chaotic. Also, I am not one for criticising production, as only a handful of bands have a Bon Jovi style production budget, but I do find the production a little muddy at times on this release. Anyway, we have an album that is heavy, melodic and I do like the vocals and screams of leading lady Lizzie Fyre. Best track to my ears is the ballad 'Death of Loneliness'. What I would say about this is to approach with a little caution, but having said that, I would be keen to hear anything else this band pushes out. Not too keen on the drum solo on the last track though, just drags on a bit. 6.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

ARCANE GRAIL..'ARYA MARGA: NINEFOLD PATH TO INNOCENCE'

(Musica Productions) Reviewed 18th January 2010

Arcane Grail (www.myspace.com/arcanegrail) hail from Russia and comprise of six members, that include the dual vocals of Natalie and Demether. The music they offer the listener could be described as Melodic Symphonic Black Death Metal, or something like that :) Opener 'Arcane Grail' is a brutal affair, that actually saw my cat hiding behind the sofa, and I kid you not. Next track in 'Of Snake and Raven' has beautiful piano combined with the soprano vocals of Natalie The Grail mixed with the brutal death metal vocal style of Demether. 'Autumn With Us Sinned and Lone' carries on the brutal vocal style coupled with the awesome operatics of Natalie, and this could be one of my fave tracks. Other cool tracks include the slower 'Sorrow of Forgotten Pride' and 'Die Sonnenhymne', the latter really showcasing very well the vocal style of Natalie. Okay folks, this release is not one for fans of Kelly Clarkson or Avril Lavigne, but I would imagine fans of Cradle of Filth and the like will lap this up. Cool....7.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

ASRAI..'PEARLS IN DIRT'

(Seasons Of Mist) Reviewed 1st December 2007

Asrai are Dutch. As I have said before, Holland seems to be the Mecca of gothic rock and metal music. This effort by Asrai is stunning. And the image this band portray as a unit is equally as stunning. 'Pearls in Dirt' is Asrai's third cd (they appeared on the scene in 1985) - kicking off with 'Delilah's Lie', this album carries on the way it starts, with some kick ass gothic metal tunes. There are faves here on this album, quite a few actually, but I do particularly like the rocky 'Go' and the equally awesome single 'Sour Ground'. As stated on the cd cover, this will appeal to fans of Evanescence, Within Temptation and Siouxsie and the Banshees. About right in my book too. Excellent stuff indeed!! 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave).

ASYLUM PYRE..'NATURAL INSTINCT'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 12th November 2009

Mixing influences and styles from Speed Metal thro Neo Classical to Progressive, passing through Lyrical or ambient metal along the way, Asylum Pyre draws elements from multiple genres so as to create its own identity. This band's trademark is to build songs around catchy melodies and rhythm breaks, that alternate quiet parts and powerful tempos. Utlilising the voices of Carole and Johann, this is a very impressive debut release. Carole's vocals range from 'normal' to operatic, while the male vocals are by and large clean. The album offers up some spoken passages too, this is immediately apparent from the opener 'Taken Away To The Asylum'. 'Coral's Riff (Now Hell)' has a beautiful instrumental passage half way through, that sent the hairs on the back of my neck on their end. Kinda Pink Floydish - great keys and guitar! 'Don't Waste It' is one of my fave tracks clocking in at over 7 mins. A beautiful track and a great intro aswell! This release has eveything, and I must say that there is some strong stuff coming out of France at the moment. This is most certainly one of them and is well worth spending your money on. A powerful and beautiful album. Check Asylum Pyre out at www.myspace.com/asylumpyre 9/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

ATARGATIS..'NOVA'

(Massacre) Reviewed 19th December 2007

Atargatis have hit the spot with this release, their second in the musical career of this band. This is epic gothic symphonic metal, that will appeal to any fans of the genre. I must say however, that Stepanie Lutzie's nasally twanged vocals do take a little getting used too, but apart from that, this is a strong effort indeed. Some interesting gothic metal on offer, with my faves being 'Riven' (a hit single if ever I heard one), 'Stars Are Falling', 'Green Lake's Ground', 'Fever Of Temptation' and 'When The Ice Breaks'. Meanwhile, another fave, 'The Marching Of The Fey' seems like a good old patriotic German marching song, quite catchy in-fact. I would recommend buying the digipack. The two bonus tracks are worthy of the purchase price alone. I must admit that their previous release, 'Wasteland' didn't quite cut it with me. This release does though! 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave).

AUSPEX..'RESOLUTION'

(Thundering Records) Reviewed 26th October 2009

The French certainly love their symphonic speed metal Fairyland, Kerion, Wildpath, etc. Auspex was founded back in 2001, and this is their debut full length CD. Elodie Buchonnet has got a powerful, versatile voice, which easily rises above the music. After the intro, there are eight epics on this album, full of great singing, choirs, spoken orations, guitar and synthesizer solos, instrumental passages, and real diversity as they move from light to heavy. There is more packed into one song than most bands manage in a whole album. They are really absorbing and fascinating to listen to, something new, different, and delightful is always just around the corner. Highlights include ‘Theatre of Pain’, the lovely melody of ‘Mysteries of Stars’, ‘Celestia’, and the closing 10 minute epic ‘Rise’. Excellent production, real variety and skilled drumming means that they avoid the overuse of tiresome double bass drum pounding that obliterates the music of some of their peers. The musicianship is outstanding, especially Frederic Hugenell’s lightning drumming, and Pierre Yves Brun’s use of synths, piano, organ and harpsichord. This is a must for fans not only of bands like Rhapsody and Fairyland, but, thanks to that diversity, to fans of symphonic metal in general. Available on their Myspace site,
www.myspace.com/auspexmusic 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Phil)

AUTUMN..'MY NEW TIME'

(Metal Blade) Reviewed 5th June 2007

This is an amazing album. Will be BIG on the European mainland no doubt, while criminally ignored here in the UK. This is the band's third offering, although I admit not to be familiar with their earlier releases. Kicking off with the ultra catchy 'Satellites', followed by the awesome 'Closest Friends Conspire', it is obvious we have a hell of an album on our hands here. And Nienke de Jong's voice is quite soulful (not operatic!), which makes the cd a joy to behold. Just listen to the closing track 'Epilogue (What's Done Is Done)' for confirmation of this. 'My New Time' also has subtle progressive elements running through it, which cannot be a bad thing. This is a very good gothic prog metal cd, and at times it is quite beautiful too!. Within Temptation had better just look over their shoulders, as fellow Dutch rockers Autumn are coming up on the rails. A fine effort indeed! 9/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

AUTUMN..'ALTITUDE'

(Metal Blade Records) Reviewed 18th January 2010 (Re-review)

I have already reviewed this cd earlier in 2009, but the review has kinda gone 'missing' from the website. And it seems that my partner in crime Aimee may have deleted it by mistake so she tells me. So lets try again!! Basically, what a corker we have here, and featuring new vocalist Marjan Welman. I will not hide the fact that Autumn are a fave band of mine, and I now have all their albums, including the near impossible to get hold of debut 'When Love Evokes The Curse'. 'Altitude' carries on the good work of their previous outing 'My New Time', with some hard rocking and at times gothy tunes, that to my ears makes this band one of the best on the European music scene. Kicking off with 'Paradise Nox' this really sets the scene as to what to expect on this hard rocking album, and is possibly one of the best songs Autumn has ever recorded. Marjan's vocals are so awesome, and the band has sure found the right match for their gothic metal style. The ballads are cool too, check out 'Synchro-Minds'. This is a very good album, and Autumn has sure been promoted to the Premier League with this release. Great stuff! 9/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

AYIN ALEPH..'AYIN ALEPH 1'

(Ivensis Import) Reviewed 21st March 2008

Want something a little different? Check this little opus out by this Paris Based Russian lass. 19 tracks and close on 80 minutes of what has been described as Baroque Metal. I suppose we could imagine Kate Bush crossed with Nina Hagan and Marilyn Manson, and then add a little bit of Freddy Mercury, and yep, we would more or less be there. Well something like that anyway. As regards the music, the lass offers a mix of various genres. Metal guitars clearly occupy a great part of this cd, and gives the tracks a heavy and metallic feel. Then we have piano and harpsichord to bring a kind of baroque and gothic style to the orchestration. I don't think I am going to bother to list individual tracks. The whole album is an awesome affair, and although metallic and operatic it may be, Nightwish it certainly isn't. I like this, it rocks, it is heavy and it has loadsa melody. This is great stuff, a little unusual but it does our beloved genre proud, and it is well worth checking out. 9/10 (Reviewed by Dave).