Reviews

EBONY ARK..'WHEN THE CITY IS QUIET'

(Ascendance Records) Reviewed 20th April 2008

Ebony Ark on this their second release, serve up a menu of melodic power metal, with the vocals of Beatriz Albert a sheer delight. I must admit to not knowing anything about this Spanish band's debut ('Decoder'), but it may well be worth checking out after this. This album is for anyone who enjoys our beloved genre, especially if you are into the gothic, progressive and the operatic side of things. 'When The City Is Quiet' is a consistent affair, and l enjoyed the cd throughout, although to my ears anyway, the best came towards the end. The title track (track 12) and the bonus track 13, 'A Merceed de la Lluvia' being very good efforts. However let's not allow this to detract from the rest of the album that is good, with great guitar and keyboards, without overdoing the solos. The UK label Ascendance Records have hit on a winner here....more please! 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave).

EBONY TOWER..'DEAD PLANETS NEW STARS'

(Red Chord Records) Reviewed 26th July 2009

A four track EP here by UK prog rock ensemble EBONY TOWER. The brainchild of guitarist and songwriter Wilson McQueen, the EP features clasically trained violinist Skye Sheridan and vocalist Rebecca Everitt amongst other reknown musicians. 'Dead Planets New Stars' is a pre curser to a full length album that will be released later in the year. I like this little release...kicking off with 'White Rabbit' a song about environmental meltdown, this track starts with a violin intro that then gives way to powerhouse riffage. 'Ebony Tower' and 'Celebrity Squares' follow and these are impressive tracks in their own right. Finally 'Looking Glass War' harks back to the heady days of LA sleaze. Indeed, in places, the vocal style on this album reminding me a little of my vocalist friend Zennor McGuire who fronts local rock band LYCK. A good little release this one and it is worth trekking to their myspace site for more info www.myspace.com/ebonytowerrocks. 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

ECHOES OF ETERNITY..'AS SHADOWS BURN'

(Massacre Records) Reviewed 27th August 2009

Fronted by Francine Boucher, 'As Shadows Burn' is Echoes of Eternity's second record, following on from their 2007 debut 'The Forgotten Goddess'. This is true Melodic Progressive Power Metal, offering the listener a mix of pure technique, catchy metal melodies and the dynamics of a female voice. Kicking off with the up tempo 'Ten of Swords' - superb musicianship with guitar solos to boot courtesy Brandon patton. The opener is then followed by the slower but equally cool and somewhat catchy 'Veiled Horizon'. 'Memories of Blood and Gold' ups the tempo a little but at the same time showcasing this band's awesome talent. With the remaining tracks following a similar formula, including the final track ('Funeral In The Sky') which is an instrumental, all the music on offer should be enough to satisfy the metal fan. To summarise, 'As Shadows Burn' is a logical step forward from their debut 'The Forgotten Goddess', and as a consequence, should take Echoes of Eternity into the premier league. It's release date is scheduled for the 25th September, so place your pre orders now. 8/10 (Reviewed by Aimee)

ECHOTERRA..'THE LAW OF ONE'

(Blinding Force) Reviewed 11th October 2009

Echoterra is a new project, started in 2007, by American power metallers Jonah W, keys, of Pyramaze and Yan Leviathan, guitar, of Avian. The duo enlisted soprano Suvi Virtanen of Finland, who was part of Therion’s choir for many years. Joining them are John Gensmer from Epicurean on drums and fellow Avian Brian Hollenbeck on bass and vocals. So this is band with a real top quality pedigree. After the orchestral intro are three Nightwishesque songs, but with two big differences. Firstly, Yan is more of a rhythm guitarist (the only real solo being supplied by guest Bill Hudson on ‘The Will of Life), so this is a real tour de force for keyboarder Jonah. If you like keyboards, you will love this album. The second big difference is the extraordinary multi part vocals, created by Suvi. She has really used her experience singing in a choir, we are all so used to the lead and backing singers singing the same line and notes, that this is a really refreshing change and gives the band a unique sound and style. ‘The Wind Surrounds You’ is an excellent piano ballad (nice to hear a proper classical piano accompaniment, rather that the normal plonking chords), followed by the atmospheric orchestral ‘To Live Again’. Next up is the album’s best song, the wonderfully named ‘Say, Try, Lie, Die’, which features superb male (clean) and female vocal interplay. ‘Beyond the Seven Seas’ has a jolly pirate vibe. ‘Water Falls’ gallops along nicely, and the album ends with an orchestral version of the afore mentioned ‘Say, Try, Lie, Die’, Jonah can really twinkle those ivories. This is a top quality album, a must for all symphonic metal fans. Available on CD Baby and readers in the USA can also buy it on Amazon. 9/10 (Reviewed by Phil).

ECHOTERRA..'IN YOUR EYES' EP

(Digital download) Reviewed 4th February 2010

Echoterra is a new symphonic metal band featuring female vocals, immaculate production, and world class musicians. In October 2009, their 'The Law Of One' opus was reviewed here. This latest EP offers three songs from that debut album re mastered featuring their new vocalist Melissa Ferlaak, plus two rather awesome instrumentals. Melissa has certainly fitted into the fold well strengthening the Nightwish comparisons, and that cannot be a bad thing. Of interest to fans would be the two piano led intrumentals, 'Bear Mountain' and 'Echoterra Overture'. The full version of the somewhat beautiful 'Bear Mountain' will appear on Echoterra's second full length release due in early 2011. And closing out the EP is the instrumental, 'Echoterra Overture', which is an orchestral medley of songs from the band's debut, 'The Law Of One'. Go to iTunes or cdbaby and download this little opus. And then check out their debut with previous vocalist Suvi. Top quality stuff..8.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

EDENBRIDGE..'MY EARTH DREAM'

(Napalm Records) Reviewed 2nd May 2008

Before I got into this Femme Metal genre, I always thought that Edenbridge was a small town in the county of Kent here in the UK. Anyway, before I have even started I have digressed. But signing with the awesome Napalm Records in late 2006, has given Edenbridge the opportunity to broaden their horizons, and that's exactly what they've done with this album. Guitar player Lanvall has written eleven great tunes here, and female vocalist Sabine Edelsbacher shows why she is one of the better female singers within the genre. The guitars are heavier and crunchier than before, and the sound is more bombastic, with the addition of the Czech Film Orchestra. The songs are melodic, although the album is not instant, it's a grower. It may not grab you first or even second time out. Anyway, once it does grab hold of you, it will not let go! The best songs from the album to my ears have to be 'My Earth Dream', over 12 and a half minutes of epic music, combining orchestral elements with hard hitting guitar riffs, the bombastic 'Remember Me' and 'Place Of Higher Power'. I have listened to this album a few times, and I had a better listening experience through the good old trusted headphones. For anyone that is missing the epic Nightwish of old, I'll make a suggestion. Check this out and crank it up to annoy the neighbours! Great stuff 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

EILERA..'FUSION'

(Spinefarm/Universal Records) Reviewed 30th Oct 2007

This is a very strong release from Eilera, a lass who hails from Montpelier in France I believe. The album is a fusion (soz) of rock/metal/gothic/folk, with excellent use of fiddle, violins and cello throughout this release. Great stuff. I find the vocals quite enchanting, perhaps reminding me a little of UK songstress Dido on just the odd occasion. Standout tracks are a plenty on this cd, but I do rate 'Keep Our Heaven' as one of my faves. And if there is anybody reading this review that finds it hard to believe that girls can rock, check this release out! This is a must buy for fans of the genre, and for those that partcularly love Within Temptation, Nightwish and the like! And the songs on 'Fusion' are fused into your head for ages afterwards! 9/10 (Reviewed by Dave).

EL CUERVO de POE..'VOX CORVUS LA VOZ DEL CUERVO'

(Renaissance Records) Reviewed 30th June 2008

The title translated means 'The Voice Of The Raven', and this is another release from the Renaissance camp, and another that although well done, may not be to everybody's taste. Originally founded in mid-2004, El Cuervo de Poe (fronted by Julia Gaos), release their first full effort here, although an independent 4 track demo did make an appearance in 2005. This band are Mexican and the album is sung in Spanish throughout, and although my understanding of the Spanish language is, well non existent, this did not distract from the good stuff on offer here. I do believe however that the lyrics deal mainly with issues close to many a gothic band's heart including loneliness etc. One of the instruments here that pops up occasionally is the violin, and it mixes in very well indeed with everything else, that includes piano and some Latin American style stuff aswell. Julia's operatic style is crystal clear throughout, and we were even treated to the odd male grunt. Another cd from Renaissance, that will take a little getting used too, but live with it, and you will find it is a decent record! 7/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

ELEGY OF MADNESS..'THE BRIDGE OF SIGHS'

(Sweet Poison Records) Reviewed 10th October 2009

Italy seems to a hot bed of symphonic gothic music, and Elegy of Madness are a new entry in the field with this, their debut album. This is for fans of Epica and Sirenia, but with prog flourishes, that remind me of Camel. Singer Anja has a soft operatic voice, in the same style as Simone Simmonds, which suits their music that lies on the lighter side of metal. The songs alternate between softer and heavier numbers, but there are always twists and turns, and a few surprises. Stand outs include the lovely instrumentation of ‘Elegy of Madness’, the eastern flavoured ‘Another Path’, and the deep, emotional ‘Agony’ parts 1 & 2. This, as befits an album called Bridge of Sighs, is melancholic, thoughtful, reflective music. If you don’t like the way that Epica have lurched into death metal, then I highly recommend you do as I did and invest in this rather than their new album. Available at http://www.gattimusic.com and at Gatti’s shop on EBay, as well as other reputable outlets. 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Phil)

ELENA..'PAINT IT GOLD'

(Delicious Records) Reviewed 28th October 2008

Elena signed to Delicious Records in 2005 and started recording her amazing debut album 'Glimpse'. 'Paint It Gold' being reviewed here is her second album. This record is not metal and it is not hard rock. Let's say indie rock, and there are some catchy little songs on this release, including the awesome single 'Pink Punk', that has been picking up airplay on BBC Radio. I find 'Paint It Gold' a very enjoyable release with it's highly infectious tunes coupled with Elena's smokey and somewhat sexy vocal style. The album is well worth a listen, with the release date expected on 24th November here in the UK. Elena can also be caught live at The Dublin Castle in Camden London on Nov 20th. Great stuff! 7.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

ELIS..'GRIEFSHIRE'

(Napalm Records) Reviewed 3rd November 2006

I am very familiar with this band. We at Ravenheart were also very upset when leading lady Sabine Dunser, passed away just after she had recorded her vocal parts for this cd. No doubt, a very talented lady taken from this world far too soon. Without getting too emotional, this album is an awesome slab of mature melodic gothic metal, with aggressive riffs and some mid and fast paced songs, coupled with some heart rendering ballads. It is Sabine's 'baby', and that is why the band decided to complete and release the album in her honour. The tracks on 'Griefshire' form part of a concept album that tells the story of two brothers, their religious fanaticism, their search for salvation, and their longing for eternal truth and love. The band also use classical arrangements in the form of strings, harps and choirs. So 'Griefshire' has it all. It is a very good Gothic Metal album by a band I have admired for a while now. Just check out the tracks 'Show Me The Way' and 'How Long' as proof of the pudding. Tell you what...check them all out..go buy the album!! RIP Sabine! We love you!! 9/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

ELIS..'SHOW ME THE WAY'

(Napalm Records) Reviewed 22nd November 2007

This 5 track EP offers the last set of material sung by the late Sabine Dunser, whose untimely death last year saddened the world of gothic metal. This is material left over from the 'Griefshire' sessions, the last to include Sabine's angelic vocals. The band though are carrying on, and Sabine's place is taken by Sandra Schleret. And there are 2 re-workings of 'Show Me The Way', originally from 'Griefshire' on this EP, ably sung I hasten to add by the new front lady. But it is the tracks featuring the late Sabine that shine here. They may have been left overs from those aforementioned 'Griefshire' sessions, but they are little gems in their own right. I have always liked Elis from album number one, and I am not ashamed to say that Sabine's cruel death emotionally saddened me! She has been singing with the Angels for well over a year now. God bless you Sabine. 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave).

ELIS..'CATHARSIS'

(Napalm Records) Reviewed 13th October 2009

I am and have always been a fan of Elis and the tragedy involving Sabine Dunser (1977-2006) knocked me for six to be quite honest. Anyway, life must go on and the band have picked themselves up quite admirably, and have recruited Sandra Schleret to fill the shoes of the late Sabine. The new record 'Catharsis' is a very good effort from the band, and indeed seems to have a kinda heavier quality about it. I am also a sucker for melody and Elis can provide that too. Furthermore, I so happen to be a fan of UK 80s pop/rock artist Jennifer Rush, and there is a cool cover of a song Jennifer Rush had a hit with here in Europe (and South Africa) in 1987, 'I Come Undone'. This given the Elis treatment, and very good it is too. This album gets released towards the end of November and it so happens to be a must buy for fans of the genre. There will also be a limited edition digi-pak inc 2 bonus tracks, and a dvd featuring Elis at the Female Voices Fest 2007. Napalm Records have hit the nail on the head again, and this record deserves to be massive! 9/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

ELYSION..'SILENT SCREAM'

(Massacre Records) Reviewed 6th November 2009

Here we have a dose of in yer face catchy melodic gothic metal, that will sure please all fans of Evanescence and Lacuna Coil to name just two. And that means it is right up my alleyway aswell. Greek Band Elysion were formed in 2006 by guitarist Johnny Zero and soon picked up the attention of Massacre Records. Fronted by Christianna, I must say I am enjoying this release, and it will be there for everybody else to enjoy from the 18th December. 'Dreamer' gets things going and yep, I can tell right away I am gonna like this. Soooo catchy! 'Killing My Dreams' (great keys and guitar solo) keeps the momentum going and I am in wonderland. Super stuff indeed. I have always liked my rock music catchy and melodic, that is possibly why I list bands like Bon Jovi, Gotthard and Danger Danger amongst many other melodic hard rock acts, as my faves! Every track on this little gem is a winner and will appeal to many with it's inoffensive style of catchy melodic gothic rock/metal. Just check out the awesome ballads, 'Weakness In Your Eyes' and 'Bleeding'- superb vocal displays from Christianna. 'Another fave track is the pounding 'Loss'. 'Silent Scream' is a MUST buy to my ears, and is one of the best albums I have heard this year within it's genre. Get it on Dec 18th!! 9.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

EOWYN..'SILENT SCREAMS'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 14th April 2008

Eowyn is a Nashville recording artist with an industrial rock/metal sound, and a theatrical stage presence that will leave you utterly captivated with emotional intrigue. “Silent Screams” is a Christian Rock album, and was produced by Travis Wyrick (P.O.D., Pillar, Disciple). With a style that is filled with industrial rock sound, inspiring vocal imaging and a powerful, dramatic presence, this album is set to make a dominant stand in the market place. I for one am having trouble finding fault with this cd. Imagine Evanescence mixed with Plumb, then add in a dose of heaviness, then may be we are nearly there! Too many genuine rock and metal fans get put off when the word Christian gets mentioned in a review. "Silent Screams" is an awesome cd, and I think one of the best in this genre that I and many others will hear this year. BUY! 9.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave).

EPHEMERIS.. 'EVOLUZIONI'

(Blackfading Records) Reviewed 13th October 2009

This CD has come out of the blue, from a band I had never heard of before; it just shows what good music there is out there. They are not to be confused with an American band of the same name; this Ephemeris comes from Bologna, Italy. They started about 2003, but it was only when they met Italian musician Cristiano Santini that they had the opportunity to record this, their debut album. The band is made up of Sara on vocals, who has a lovely voice, plus guitar, bass, drums, piano and violin. This is a very diverse album, with elements of semi acoustic Within Temptation, Renaissance, Mostly Autumn, Fairground Attraction and the Corrs. It starts with the gothic rock of ‘Angelo’, then ‘Dipinta di Sole’, which starts with a swing before going through numerous shades and moods. The syncopation of ‘Creatures’ is followed by the driving rock of ‘Burattini’. ‘Madreluna’ is a swing waltz with delightful piano that gradually builds. The acoustic guitar and piano ‘Libera da me’ comes before the Corrs like, and all too brief, ‘Angelo II’. They pick it up again with the rockier ‘Your Glance’, then the folk rock of ‘Puff’ that builds into something rather heavier. The brief atmospherics of ‘O Filii et Filae’ is followed by the title track, the organ fuelled ‘Evoluzioni’. The only criticism is that some songs, like ‘Evoluzioni’ and ‘Angelo II’ deserve to be longer. The changes in pace and tone makes this a truly delightful listening experience, but it still has a consistency in sound and style that unifies all the songs. It is highly recommended for fans of the lighter side of gothic rock, but still like some oomph. It is available from their shop on their Myspace site, www.myspace.com/ephemerisrock 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Phil)

EPICA..'THE DIVINE CONSPIRACY'

(Nuclear Blast) Reviewed 19th Sept 2007

Epica have produced 75+ minutes of epic metal blending darkness, light and power. Enough power in-fact to light the streets of London!! I myself am not a lover of death metal vocals, but somehow, they fit in very well on this album, coupled with the angelic vocals of Simone Simons. Instrumental 'Indigo' leads us into the menacing duo of 'The Obsessive Devotion' and 'The Menace of Vanity'. Death metal vocals, angelic vocals, crunching guitars, power drumming, choirs, orchestration, and we are only up to track 3!. 'Chasing The Dragon' is sheer beauty, while 'Never Enough' is possibly the most commercial track on the album. The middle third of the cd is as heavy, beautiful and as menacing as the first third - just listen to 'Death of a Dream', 'Living a Lie' and 'Fools of Damnation' for confirmation of that. And continuing into the final third, there is no let up, with 'Beyond Belief' and 'Safeguard to Paradise' showcasing Simone's beautiful vocals. The epic near 14 minute title track brings the cd to a close, enabling the listener to re capture their breath. To us here at Ravenheart, a cd is always good when time flies by while listening to it. The 75 minutes soon went by listening to this album. Enough said. We also have to say that this is another superb release from the Nuclear Blast Stable. BUY!! 10/10 (Reviewed by Dave&Aimee).

EPICA..'DESIGN YOUR UNIVERSE'

(Nuclear Blast) Reviewed 17th October 2009

Dutch band Epica sure live up to their name with this release. 14 tracks (inc bonus) and just a few seconds shy of the 80 minute mark, this is Epic Progressive Symphonic Metal Music delivered in a way only Epica know how. Featuring the dual vocals of the lovely Simone Simons and the grunts (although not the best around) of founder member Mark Jansen, 'Design Your Universe' is totally bombastic with huge choirs, operatic vocals, growls, Gregorian chants and goodness knows what else thrown into the mix! And it is flippin' catchy at times as well! To many, the music would be pretty much your standard symphonic female-fronted metal, except a little heavier due to the Death Metal side of the band. But every track here is an epic (that word again) and is certainly one for fans of the genre - think Nightwish mixed with Therion and Leaves' Eyes to name just three, and may be we are getting there. I have heard a little negativity regards this release from various quarters, mainly due I think to the Death Metal influences that are apparent. But when you hear a track like 'Tide Of Time', an awesome piano led ballad. Well myself...I am won over! BUY!! 9/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

ERBEN DER SCHOPFUNG..'NARBEN DER ZEIT'

(M.O.S. Records) Reviewed 11th December 2009

Erben der Schopfung's 2001 debut 'Twilight' has a pride of place in my cd collection. The band were then fronted by the late Sabine Dunser, who then went on to front Elis, before her untimely death. Unfortunately, to put it mildly, problems arose in the camp in those early days, and there were fallouts, certain people behaving out of turn, court actions etc. I could make a film, but I won't! In 2005, mastermind Oliver Falk re formed the band (boy, am I glad he did!), and we now fast forward towards the end of 2009, when 'Narben Der Zeit' has been released. Fronted by the Weltenbrand lass, Dina Falk (who I must thank for sending me this promo), this band has now upped the ante with this release. It is heavier, it is more metallic but with some awesome splashes of Electro and Techno to spice things up a little along the way. The opening salvo of 'Frequency' and 'Jane Churm' get things underway, before the jaw dropping 'Homeless' slows things down. I like this release, but I have always been partial to a little electro/techno, and when this is mixed with some goth, rock and metal, it is near heaven for me! Lovely stuff. 'Der tote See' speeds things up again, and if one is unable to tap their feet to any tracks on this release, then you must have a serious hearing problem, or you are just plain miserable. Check out the ultra cool 'Freeze My Soul' as another example of an awesome tune. To be honest, this is a splendid release, and I just want to wish Oliver, Dina and the gang all the best with it. I would like to see some publicity over here with this record. If Enter Shikari can do it here with their style of Techno Metal, then I am sure Erben der Schopfung can! Great stuff! 9/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

ETERNAL DESCENT..'LOSING FAITH'

(Incendium Records) Reviewed 13th April 2007

"An Urban Gothic Fantasy. Elements of Heavy Rock, Industrial, Ambient, and Experimental, fused with Romantic film score arrangements bring this story and its characters to life".

The above was lifted from'Eternal Descent's' myspace site. Tell you what. I enjoyed the CD. Bear one thing in mind here. It seems 'Losing Faith' was produced entirely' in house' and with no label backing as such. I would love to see a major get behind this band. As we then may have a band on our hands. The words and music are by Londoner Llexi Leon, with vox by Aussie girl Elysha West. I assume this is Llexi Leon's project. This guy is a musical genius, and I enjoyed this cd immensely. It may not be to every hard rocker's taste, but we at Ravenheart are open minded musically! What I will say is that 'Eternal Descent' are British based, and any Brits (and anyone else of course) reading this should support them. Because based on this, if they can shift some copies of 'Losing Faith', then there could be album number two, and to be honest, I cannot wait! The album is available from cdbaby, and Amazon USA. Why not Amazon UK? I am not sure. And check out their myspace site too-the link is on ourlinks page. 7.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave).

EVANESCENCE..'THE OPEN DOOR'

(Wind Up Records) Reviewed 26th September 2006

Pre release reviews have been a little mixed on this release. So it is our turn at Ravenheart Towers to have our say. Well, it ain't bad. It could have rocked out more in places, with the pace certainly slowing down during the second half of the album. The triple opening salvo of 'Sweet Sacrifice', 'Call Me When You're Sober' and 'Weight Of The World' make for a promising start, before 'Lithium' slows things down. Thereafter, the album offers the typical trademark Amy Lee vocals, coupled with the just as typical trademark Evanescence guitar style. I would have liked to have seen more rockers on this album, although don't get me wrong, this cd is a fine effort. 'Good Enough' finishes the cd on a slow note, which begs the question, is it good enough? 'The Open Door' will get a mixed reception from the rock press I reckon, but fans will lap it up, female fronted anoraks (me included) will lap it up too. Not as instant as 'Fallen' but this is certainly a grower. If I was a teacher..my comment would be..'well done, but could have done just a wee bit better'..7/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

EXOTERIK..'DON'T SWALLOW'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 15th December 2008

Exoterik so happen to be a UK based band fronted by the rather awesome Anneka Latta. Their music is a fusion of goth and metal to create a record that showcases this bands style with immense precision. This offering was recorded in both Finland and Latvia, and features eleven tracks, eight of which were produced and mixed by John Fryer. John has previously produced albums for Him, Cocteau Twins, Depeche Mode and Cradle of Filth, amongst others. There is some very good stuff on offer here, including 'The Catalyst', 'Salvation', 'Complicity', the catchy 'Alone', 'Preservation' and my fave track, the somewhat haunting 'Raping The Reverie'. I can pick up on occasion vague similarities to Evanescence and more so Lacuna Coil. They have even gigged with Lacuna Coil. Having said that, Exoterik do have a sound that I think they could call their own. This is a good release, so what are you waiting for. Go to www.exoterik.co.uk/ and order. 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

EXOTERIK..'BUTTERFLY IN YOUR HAND'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 12th November 2009

After recording the previous album 'Don’t Swallow' between Finland and Latvia with producer John Fryer (Him, Cocteau Twins, Depeche Mode and Cradle of Filth etc), Leeds based Exoterik have this time decided to keep to their roots and record their second album in England (Northampton). And like their debut offering, 'Butterfly In Your Hand' is an awesome slab of Gothic Rock/Metal. Fronted by Anneka Latta, this little platter kicks off with the up tempo 'Reason To Live' which is followed by 'No Happy Ending' with it's catchy little chorus. There is no resting as third track in 'Scream To Be Heard' comes screaming from the speakers after a quiet intro - just screaming to be heard. The album continues at a similar pace throughout, although things do slow down on occasion, 'Pressure' being one of the slower tracks, albeit a rather powerful song and 'Uninvited' is another slower one with interesting and somewhat personal lyrics I would imagine! The band have a winner here, the standard is high and I would imagine a great band to see live! And they are British. A great record and well worth checking out! 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

EYES OF EDEN..'FAITH'

(Century Media) Reviewed 28th Sept 2007

A good melodic gothic metal release we have here featuring Gas Lipstick of HIM on drums. Century Media have got us a good un. Dortmund based Eyes Of Eden are fronted by Franziska Huth, she reminding me in places of Liv Kristin. And this is hauntingly beautiful, mystical rock music, being generally mid paced gothy stuff, the sort of style that got me into the genre in the first place. No real standout tracks as they are all pretty good. But the last track, 'Not Human Kind' is a 10 minute plus epic worthy of a mention. 'Faith' has a UK release, and is worth parting with your hard earnt cash (£9.99 in some UK stores), if you are into this type of music. And if you have stayed with this review to here, then you must be. A good effort!! 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave).