Reviews

TAINTED GRACE..'DENIAL DAYDREAMS'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 10th July 2010

The self funded EP by this awesome UK band has been recorded with the expert help of Season’s End guitarist Tim Goatham at his home in Hampshire (UK). And what a good move that has turned out to be. Fronted by the very likeable Trissy Norris, Tainted Grace with this 5 track EP, are already flirting with the Premier League. And they are proving that there is some awesome female fronted talent here in the UK, which still for some reason seems to get criminally ignored by the European labels. 'Catatonic' and 'Labyrinth' kick things off, and this opening salvo proves how the band has moved on leaps and bounds from some of their previous recorded material ('Liberatae Mai Vol 1). Trissy's vocals indeed taking on an occasionally folk like feel, which mixes well with the heavy style of music on offer. 'Eternal Night' is a slower accoustic style of song, but still with the heavy guitars to spice it up a bit. 'Shadows On The Tide' (my fave track here), has some cool metal riffs and has a hideously catchy chorus to boot, while 'The Rapture' closes this current chapter in the band's recording history, and I must say this record to my ears is a winner. It is heavy, it's melodic and it HAS to be checked out by lovers of our beloved genre, so go to www.myspace.com/taintedgraceband - PLEASE! 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

TANTAL..'THE BEGINNING OF THE END'

(Mazzar Records, Russia) Reviewed 19th November 2009

Want an album that is heavy, melodic, offers a mix of power and progressive metal, and has death metal vocals and clean vocals, all vocals done by leading lady Sofia Raykova. Then check out Russian band Tantal. This album to be honest has taken the wind out of my sails, literally! The album kicks off with the cries of a baby before the 8 minute plus title track steamrollers it's way from the speakers, with brutally harsh vocals from Sofia and a chorus to die for (that features Sofia's clean vocal style). The album, featuring this mix of vocal styles, continues at a pace that will leave you gasping for breath, with most of the tracks perfectly merging into each other giving one absolutely no time to catch their breath. And with guitar solos in the best tradition of Dream Theatre, Malmsteen and the like, this is a very good album for anybody that enjoys their music aggressively heavy, melodic and loud. The sound has been taken care of by Eugene Vinogradov (Crematory) and I have to say that this album sure is worth checking out. Not one if you are into the softer side of our beloved genre, but this is a safe bet for the metal fans out there. I always know how good an album is, and while listening to this 8 track offering, the 50 minutes just flew by. Go to www.myspace.com/tantalband and check them out. 9/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

PATRICIA TAPIA KHY..'VOLVER a CREER'

(Warner) Reviewed 16th February 2011

Spanish singer Patricia first came to fame with the band Nexx and has also appeared as a guest for folk metallers Mago de Oz (Wizard of Oz), being voted the best female rock vocalist in Spain from 2005 to 2008. This is her new band with all songs co written by Patricia and her sister Monica, who also appears on rhythm guitar and vocals. Unlike Nexx she has chosen to return to her native language, which she uses to add a rhythmic quality to her vocals. Her sound is midway between Lacuna Coil and Robin Beck producing major label, commercial, catchy, driving melodic rock/metal. It's not going to reinvent the wheel but it does a most efficient job of keeping you entertained. Her vocals veer towards the American 'burst a blood vessel' style rather than the more restrained European way of singing, and apart from the language, this is a very American sounding album. Highlights include the infectious 'En Mi Locura' (video on Female Voices Blog), the bouncy 'Nada Sin Tu Piel', the swaying 'Aquel Callejon', the emotive 'Promesas Olvidadas' and the last track 'En Silencio' where the band cut loose. If you like prime quality melodic rock/metal head to her website at www.patriciatapiakhy.com, a most efficient 8.5/10 (Phil)

TAPPING THE VEIN..'ANOTHER DAY DOWN'

(Dancing Ferret Discs) Reviewed 14th July 2009

At long last, Tapping The Vein offers up their second album, and it's a must for fans of dark and heavy gothic rock. Anyone who already owns their previous album 'The Damage' WILL buy 'Another Day Down.' And they will not be disappointed. Lyrically this is seriously manically depressive stuff on offer here. Not a duff track on this record either. And Heather's vocals...splendidly cool, singing about being on a 'Horror Day' (not holiday) on the track 'I Don't Feel'! So go on, get hold of £12 and treat yourself to your own horror day, you know you must...8/10 (Reviewed by Aimee)

TARJA TURUNEN..'MY WINTER'S STORM'

(Vertigo/Universal) Reviewed 24th November 2007

One thing is certain here. Finnish soprano singer Tarja Turunen has the voice of an angel. She may have been sacked from Nightwish, and indeed, I still do find all that shenanigans rather strange. After all, if you was manager of a soccer team, would you sack your star striker? Now onto the music..'My Winter's Storm' is one of the strongest albums you will hear this year! The single and opener 'I Walk Alone' will be one of the best songs you will hear this year too! The album itself mixes rock/metal & classical, merging it all together with Tarja's operatic and emotional vocal approach. More upbeat tracks like 'Die Alive' and the guitar driven 'Ciaran's Well' blend in well with the slower songs like 'Sing For Me' and 'Our Great Divide'. And that's not mentioning the cover of Alice Cooper's 'Poison', that to my ears even has a Queen feel to it. The limited edition version comes with a dvd and has three bonus audio tracks, including two other versions of 'I Walk Alone'. I love this cd, it has it all, and proves to me that female fronted rock and metal is well and truly alive and kicking. A definite must buy for fans of the genre. And if you are not, but you are curious, well buy it anyway, you may like it! 9.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave).

TARJA..'WHAT LIES BENEATH'

(Universal Records) Reviewed 8th September 2010

This is the most eagerly awaited release of the year, and with most of the big boys dormant, the door is wide open for our favourite opera diva to stride forth upon the World’s stage. We all know Tarja, so without further ado, let’s get that platter spinning and see what lies beneath. We start with a most unusual choice of opener, the Diablo Swing Orchestra craziness of ‘Anteroom of Death’ featuring a vocal extravaganza by the German a cappella metal band Van Canto. ‘Until My Last Breath’ is a rocker that proves beyond all reasonable doubt that the metal is back, followed by the big symphonic metal ballad, ‘I Feel Immortal’. ‘In For the Kill’ starts appropriately enough with the menacing strains of the Jaws theme before turning into a metal monster; it should be the title of the next Bond movie. The power ballad ‘Underneath’ takes it down a touch, then the mega melodic metal track, ‘Little Lies’. ‘Rivers of Lust’ is one of those ethereal ballads she does so well, and perhaps the track that is closest to My Winter Storm in style. We are back to metal, with a capital M, for ‘Dark Star’, with a touch of the Turkish and guest vocals by Phil Labonte (All That Remains), there are even some growls, yes, this really is Tarja! There’s no let up as we head into ‘Falling Awake’ with Joe Satriani setting fire to his fretboard. The gentler ‘The Archive of Lost Dreams’ features Tarja tickling the ivories, before the massive, dramatic symphonic metal closer ‘Crimson Deep’. The Deluxe version features a bonus CD with a further 3 cuts, including the Whitesnake chestnut ‘Still of the Night’. It is remarkable that an album that uses so many different co-writers, musicians and producers sounds so coherent, thanks to Tarja’s stamp of quality and distinctive sound. Winter Storm saw Tarja tentatively forging a new identity, but she appeared fearful of her metal past, perhaps worried about comparisons with that other bunch. This album sees the fulfilment of her quest, with her fully, proudly and confidently embracing the fact that she is a symphonic metal singer, albeit with many other sides to her music and her own unique gothic rather than power metal style. In a nutshell, this is a must buy, 9.5/10 (Reviewed by Phil)

TATTERMASK..'THIS AIN'T NO HANNAH MONTANA!'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 9th September 2009

For music lovers into Half The World and Suhgarim, here we have Tattermask, fronted by Amanda Caines. Another hard rocking band from the USA (North Carolina), and a band that is not afraid to provide the listener with stacks of melody too. This 6 track EP was sent to me by the band, and I must say I would like to hear more as and when it becomes available. A good little effort here - all the tracks can be heard on their myspace site www.myspace.com/tattermask. Go on, you know you should! 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

TEARS OF MAGDALENA..'MYTHS AND LEGENDS'

(Scarlet Records) Reviewed 26th December 2008

Tears Of Magdalena from Finland has given us a little gem here. Fronted on this release by Magdalena Lee, she also plays keys and the violin. So she is obviously a very gifted lass, although I understand that she is no longer the band's vocalist (due to personal issues and disagreements). 'Myths and Legends' however, offers up 8 tracks of catchy gothic metal with growly/extreme vocals by a certain Mr Vasstago, who is also no longer in the band. And it seems that he has been in a little bit of bother with the Finnish Police due to harassments and nasty threats to other members of the band, and is under a restraining order as a consequence. Anyway, with enough to go on here to write a soap opera, what about the music? As I say, this release ain't bad at all, with the opener 'Aurora Borealis' a catchy up tempo number, and there are others where that came from...check out 'Immortal Love', 'In The Silence', 'Nightmare' and 'Your Blood Is My Wine'. This release would go down well with fans of Nightwish and the like, and even with the occasional throaty vox, I do urge any readers to check this one out. Cool production aswell. I would be interested to hear how their next record will pan out with new band members. Meanwhile, buy this one! 8/10 (reviewed by Dave)

TEMUJIN..'1000 TEARS'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 7th August 2007

Temujin is a gothic metal band from Australia. An independently produced cd, which I have quite taken a fancy too. The band being founded by Karl Lean, who was with an Aussie band called 'Nothing Sacred'. In 2004 Karl began solo writing of new material. With several arrangements underway, the next step was finding a vocalist with the sound and style to complement the music. A single session with the angelic sounding Kelly was all it took to confirm that something rare was taking shape. The arrival of Kelly instantly transformed the songs under development. Working from a collection of 25 completed arrangements, the final track listing of 13 songs was chosen for the debut CD "1000 Tears". And these atmospheric sounding songs are very good too. It is a real pleasure when something like this arrives at Ravenheart Towers. Please visit their myspace site at http://www.myspace.com/temujin1, and as I have said numerous times before, support a band that are unsigned and that fully deserve your attention. 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave).

THEATRES DES VAMPIRES..'ANIMA NOIR'

(Aural Music/SPV) Reviewed 22nd May 2008

This album is totally mind blowing. Who needs drugs when you can get a fix of Italian Vampyric Metal from these metal merchants! Put into a blender a mix of the Bloodflowerz, The Cult, and Suzie & the Banshees, mix in a fair helping of melody, crunching guitars and some good doses of electronica, and we have the new record by Theatres Des Vampires for all you Vampires out there to get your teeth into. 'Anima Noir' certainly seems more accessible than earlier releases, and this album deserves recognition worldwide. The cd kicks off with 'Kain' and the pace continues with 'Unspoken Words'. Third one in 'Rain' is The Cult classic. And Theatres Des Vampires have made the song their own..totally awesome stuff. In-fact I cannot fault 'Anima Noir' at all, and it has sure been a pleasant surprise. Check out further the songs 'Dust', 'Blood Addiction' and 'Butterfly' and you will be hitting the repeat button at the end to hear it all again. Great stuff throughout, and as for the vocals of Sonya Scarlet - lovely!!!! The cd can be bought from the major retailers, so there is no excuse. Get it now! 9.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave).

THEATRES DES VAMPIRES..'MOONLIGHT WALTZ'

(Dreamcell11/Aural Music) Reviewed 1st December 2010

Theartres Des Vampires return with another Gothic Metal opus. All their past releases have been very enjoyable to my ears, and although I feel that their last record, 'Anima Noir' took a slightly more commercial an indeed an electro direction, 'Moonlight Waltz' sees the band return with a vengeance, while still retaining an accessible feel to their music. The opening salvo of 'Keeper of Secrets' and 'Fly Away' I think confirm those opinions. Third track in is the title track, and is totally awesome assuring the listener that this band is top drawer within the Gothic Metal genre, and not only that, vocalist Sonya is in top form too! 'Carmilla' and 'Sangue' bounce along quite nicely, while 'Figlio Della Luna' is the album's cover version (an Italian version of Hijo de la Luna by Mecano). There are further highlights galore on this record including 'Illusion', the at times haunting 'Obsession', and the upbeat and catchy 'The Gates of Hades'. The final track meanwhile, 'Medousa' kinda in a strange sort of way reminds me of a heavier Evanescence (but with Sonya at the helm :) ). 'Moonlight Waltz' confirms that Theatres Des Vampires are back and firing on all four cylinders. The album gets released in January and will sure be worth checking out. Great stuff and worthy of 9/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

THEATRE OF TRAGEDY..'FOREVER IS THE WORLD'

(AFM Records) Reviewed 30th September 2009

I have all Theatre of Tragedy's albums and I have been with them all the way, seeing their musical styles change through the years. But I am open minded regards my music, so I have enjoyed all their output as a consequence. Now, what about 'Forever Is The World'? Basically, this record continues where their previous offering, 'The Storm' left off, but without the electronic elements. 'Forever Is The World' you could say is an amalgamation of 'Aegis' and 'The Storm', and it confirms that vocalist Nell has settled in well. The cd gets going with the opening salvo of 'Hide and Seek' and 'Nine Days Wonder' , confirming that TOT are on top form with this release, while 'Revolution' and 'Transition' continue the good work. There is a lot of atmospheric and beautiful sounding stuff here, which all ends with the duo of the spell binding 'Deadland' and the awesome title track. It was the title track that actually had a colleague of mine asking.."who is this Dave"? They may have won a new fan! This is good stuff that confirms to me what a great band TOT are. Get it! 9/10 (Reviewed by Dave).

The A.X.E. PROJECT..'TALES FROM A LOST REALM'

(Digispherium Music) Reviewed 6th April 2011

It has taken an astonishing 20 years and countless trials, tribulations and line-up changes for Bulgarian brothers Georgi and Rosen Georgiev to finally realise their dream and release this first part of a trilogy. It was originally recorded as a demo way back in 2003 but never released, then re-recorded in 2010 with a new band, and the lyrics are copyright 1997-2010! It tells the tale of an ancient world which disappeared centuries ago and its three eras of development, the only things left are ancient scrolls containing different stories. This means that each song is a self contained story, and unlike the new Within Temptation, they have told me what each one is about which is a massive help, I can understand and appreciate the songs far more. They are not just a studio project but a fully fledged band who have just opened for Blind Guardian. As this album deals with earliest era, there is a medieval folk flavour to the music so it lies somewhere between Therion and Lyriel, but all fans of symphonic, gothic and prog rock/metal will also feel at home, they have a broad sweep of inspirations but a very singular sound. Later instalments will have slightly different styles to suit later ages. The themes are suitably early medieval as well, wizards, emperors, queens, evil goddesses, and werewolves. They feature the rock tenor of bassist Georgi supported by the classical soprano Petya Plukchieva, and the twin axe attack (sorry, I had to put that in, I couldn't resist) of Rosen and lead guitarist Rosen Mehanov. They have a very dense but not heavy sound with lots going on and a great variety of different instruments, so it takes a few spins to decipher it all, which makes for a fascinating listen. It is great to hear the guitarists using a selection of sounds, not just the 'METAL!' button, plus there are some super keyboards by Stoyan Martinov, trilling flute from Sophie Vassileva and terrific rolling tom tom fills by drummer Stoyan Petrov, in fact at times it reminds me of Pendragon's Masquerade Overture album or Rainbow. Highlights include the stately 'Dark Tale' with its rousing climax, the swaying waltzing 'Mountain Queen' and the galloping 'Pain'. This is is a testament to perseverance and determination, and I hope it does not take another twenty years for the second part, otherwise by the third I will be, urmm, rather ancient. Fans of symphonic, prog and gothic rock/metal can hack their way to CD Baby for a copy, their Myspace is here, a finely hewn 8.5/10 (Phil)

THE DIVINE MADNESS..'NEVERWORLD'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 11th April 2009

The Divine Madness fronted by Victoria Mazzè has released a diverse cd of cool, catchy and at times laid back rock music. The record kicks off with the bouncy and catchy 'Alive', which is followed by the slower but equally impressive 'Perfect Methods'. Listening to this cd, and I also found the experience quite laid back on occasion, just listen to 'Villains' and 'Break Apart' as prime examples of awesome balladry. Although having heard of The Divine Madness, this is my first foray into their music. I was not disappointed and I am sure you will not be either. A cool release and a pleasant listening experience - an 8.5/10 as a consequence (Reviewed by Dave)

THE EDEN HOUSE..'SMOKE & MIRRORS'

(Jungle Records) Reviewed 7th May 2009

Here is an interesting release that sure has caught my attention. In this new collaborative project, the core members are Stephen Carey, formerly of Ireland’s This Burning Effigy, and Tony Pettitt, formerly of the influential and awesome Fields of The Nephilim. And the vocal contributions to help produce what are some darkly beautiful songs, come from Julianne Regan (All About Eve), Evi Vine, Amandine Ferrari and Monica Richards (Faith & The Muse). And the whole little package has been mastered by Grammy nominated Andy Jackson, engineer of Pink Floyd and David Gilmour. Is it any good? my simple answer is yep. I can only suggest to anyone who is into atmospheric and heavenly beautiful songs is to check this release out. As it says on their myspace site, "In The Eden House, there is no one singer. Just one intention; to create a coalition of beauty in music, vocals, talent and soul". I echo that. It can be bought from Amazon...lovely record. 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

THE EDEN HOUSE..'THE LOOKING GLASS'

(Jungle Records) Reviewed 5th February 2010

This new release from The Eden House (their second), that was released on February 1st contains a DVD of a live set recorded only days before the bands first live appearance, plus a 5 track CD of covers of some of the bands favourite songs, from artists as diverse as The Shangri Las, Radiohead and Bjork to name just three! The DVD was mixed at Pink Floyds Astoria studio, while the cd like the debut was mixed by Andy Jackson (Pink Floyd). The core members of the band remain Stephen Carey (This Burning Effigy), and Tony Pettitt (Fields of The Nephilim). And there are four ladies sharing vocal duties, including All About Eve's Julianne Regan. I like this style of atmospheric rock, and this little package would be an ideal introduction to anybody who may be unfamiliar with the band but fancies "giving them a try". 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

THE LAST EMBRACE..'AERIAL'

(LongfellowDeeds Records) Reviewed 20th January 2010

The Parisian band have a long history stretching back to 1998, but this is only their second album, coming 3 years after their first, ‘Inside’. Their music lies somewhere around bands such as Muse, Renaissance, Pink Floyd, Porcupine Tree, Streams of Passion and Mostly Autumn, with just the right mix of musical sophistication and melodic accessibility. Singer Sandy has a gorgeous voice, with echoes of Heather Findlay and Marcela Bovio, which perfectly suits the music. It starts with ‘Complete City’, which sounds like souped up Mostly Autumn, followed by the Renaissance like soft jazz of ‘Impending Dawn’, complete with Anthony’s Jon Camp like bass, that moves into a dreamy trumpet passage, before some dramatic classical piano brings the song back again. ‘Among Them’ is a delicate instrumental with Olivier’s electric guitar arpeggios, strings and piano, before the epic ‘Into the Vortex’ which starts out as a spaced out Pink Floyd trip and then builds in power and majesty as it moves into Muse territory, complete with guitar and Hammond wigouts. After the hurricane comes the peaceful piano ballad ‘Gravity’, and the appropriately swooping synths that announce the beginning of title track, ‘Aerial’, another songs that builds and gathers momentum, with more delightful piano from Coco, and I love the way the instruments drop out at the end just leaving Sandy’s lovely voice. Weird synths signal the thumping beat of the Muse like rocker, ‘Whirltime’, again balanced with the gentle, dreamy, Latin infused duet, ‘Alone, which features the wonderfully melancholic voice of Mick Moss (Antimatter), with more gorgeous piano and acoustic guitar. The album moves into India as we catch the Marrakesh Express of ‘Saffron’s Theatre’ as is gathers pace and steams into the Porcupinish ‘Nomad Wave’, which is alternately atmospheric and powerful. Dreamy Fender Rhodes and tremolo guitar float through ‘Playground’, which segues into the Renaissance like ‘Serotonine’ that gathers pace as it soars, and the CD ends with the Mostly Autumn mellowness of ‘Precious Pond’. The musicianship throughout is exemplary, with special mention to drummer Alexis who skilfully drives the band along, and the super clear modern production. I love bands that can slip up and down the gears effortlessly, this gives variety, light and shade, and when The Last Embrace get going, they purr along the road like a Hispano-Suiza grand tourer. This record fits me like my favourite old woolly jumper; I cannot find any fault with it, so motor along to www.myspace.com/thelastembracefr and take it for a spin. 10/10 (Reviewed by Phil)

THE LAST VOID..'STATE OF MIND'

(Self Release) Reviewed 14th December 2010

The Last Void take elements of Porcupine Tree, Touchstone, The Reasoning and To-Mera to create that distinctive British powerful melodic prog sound, only they are not from Hereford but Heredia in Costa Rica! Added to that cute Adriana Muñoz has a superb Kim Seviour/Jlie Kiss style voice with perfect English and not a trace of accent. The first thing that strikes you when you get this platter spinning is the quality of the sound. It is remarkable how independent bands like The Last Void and Obsidian Shell produce such a superb professional sound on limited resources whilst other similar groups sound like they were recorded in a toilet on a mobile phone. The album is packed with 6 awesome, melodic, powerful prog rockers with wonderful refrains such as 'Kindergarden Stuff' and 'Shadow', together with 3 heavier proggier numbers like the suitably titled 'Metal Mind', all set around the excellent instrument 'M.A.F.A. Interlude'. All the songs feature fascinating variations, you never know what they might throw in, anything from a spot of Latin jazz to a burst of Opeth extremity. Plus you get loads of terrific guitar work without noodling by Alberto Cartín and Mauricio Madrigal, with skilful syncopated drumming by Felipe Cartín. This is a band that oozes class, and if like me you love powerful melodic prog then let Adriana and the lads fill the last void in your collection. Their Myspace is www.myspace.com/voidcr, and it's easily available from CD Baby, a most excellent 8.75/10 (Reviewed by Phil)

THE LETTER BLACK..'HANGING ON BY A THREAD'

(Tooth & Nail Records) Reviewed 23rd May 2010

Calling all Paramore and Flyleaf fans to name just two bands. I am sure you have the idea by now. An awesome album we have here by Christian Rockers The Letter Black, fronted by the lovely Sarah Anthony. And they do not hang around, as 'Fire with Fire' fires out of your speakers like a turbo charged machine gun! What an opener! And if you thought that was a blaster, then we have the heavy 'Invisible', with it's catchy riffs and chorus, this being one of my favourite tracks. The title track, another fave carries on the momentum with yet another awesome chorus - 'save me from losing myself, I am hanging on by a thread'. The occasional male vocals on this album by Mark Anthony (Sarah's husband) remind me a little of Lacuna Coil. The cd continues at a steady melodic pace throughout with choruses galore, and I do find the lyrics at times pulling on my heartstrings...'there'll come a day when I can hold you and say it's forever', from the super ballad 'There'll Come a Day'. 'Best of Me' is another track I adore, and I am sure I have heard this one before. Lovely!!! Thirteen tracks of great Christian Rock on this release, and boy, it sure rocks too. Great stuff and easily obtainable from Amazon etc. Worthy of a 9/10. (Reviewed by Dave)

THE LIFELINE..'REFLECTIONS OF HOPE'

(Self Release) Reviewed 27th February 2011

The Lifeline are a nu prog crossover rock/metal band from the windy city Chicago lead by virtuoso violinist Rebecca Faber and singer/guitarist Ryan T. Hope, could the album title be a clever play on words? This is their second album, the follow up to 2006's 'For All That Triumph'. Although Rebecca uses a traditional acoustic instrument, not electric like Vanessa Mae or plugged through effects pedals, their music is completely contemporary, think bands like Muse, My Chemical Romance and 30 Seconds to Mars. The violin isn't a very rock 'n' roll instrument, the violinist normally pops in for a quick fiddle and then goes off for a cuppa while the band plays on, but Rebecca's violin is on an equal par with the guitars. The result is a massive soaring epic sound that is truly widescreen cinematic, with Ryan belting it out like Keith Caputo over a humongous wall of guitars and violins, just turn it up loud and rattle the window panes. This is a band that blurs the distinction between rock and metal, and between the mainstream and prog. Twelve colossal anthems that calm to a hush and then swell to astronomical heights, songs like the pulsating 'Push and Pull', the incendiary 'Hellboy', the spellbinding 'The Alchemist' and the dramatic ''Romeo and Juliet', culminating in the climactic 'Ending'. An awesome album that will appeal to a wide cross section of metal, rock, alternative and prog fans, their website is here.. The Lifeline and it's available from CD Baby, a widescreen cinematic 9/10 (Phil)

THE MARIANA HOLLOW..'COMA HEART'

(Independent release) Reviewed 4th June 2010

The Mariana Hollow fronted by Rebecca Spinks, is an alternative metal quintet hailing from Greater London. Their sound is steeped in dark melody, sometimes angry, often melancholic, and always passionate, and to be honest, they should go down a storm here and in the USA. Dynamic twin guitar lines and complex rhythms occasionally take the music in a progressive direction, yet the band never lose sight of the impact of a great chorus. 'Coma Heart' runs at nearly 38 mins and is mixed by Chris Sheldon (Foo Fighters, Skunk Anansie, Biffy Clyro, Oceansize, Anthrax). The album is an awesome slab of alternative rock/metal, and this band surely cannot remain unsigned for long, with their knack of writing complex although very accessible tunes coupled with somewhat infectious melodies. To be honest, this is the kinda band a label like Universal Records should be taking a serious look at. All seven tracks here pack a serious punch and I myself am finding it difficult to pick out a fave, as they are all that good. However, 'Paper Plane' may just shade it. The Mariana Hollow proves what great talent the UK has, if only the major labels would just sit up and take notice. Check them out for yourselves at www.myspace.com/themarianahollow. This is worthy of a 9/10 - good stuff!! (Reviewed by Dave)

The MARY MAJOR..'04:13'

(TMM Productions) Reviewed 26th January 2010

Well, what can I say? Out from the shadows emerge 4 former members of the ex Napalm Records band Beseech (a fave band of mine btw), complemented by a new bass player, Jorgen Strom. The result...The Mary Major. The members of this band financed this album, released it on their own TMM label. And if that is not enough, the mastering was carried out by Beau Hill (Alice Cooper, Europe and Ratt amongst others). The music here is heavy and straight to the point, featuring driving guitars, solid vocals coupled with a solid bass/drum backdrop. And on top of all that, the music on offer never loses it's sense of melody. Featuring the dual vocal attack of Lotta Höglin and Erik Molarin (as it was in Beseech), this is an awesome dose of rock music that hits hard but is always melodic. Great stuff on offer featuring the awesome opener 'Stage 7'. 'Split' keeps up the momentum and you can hear the Beseech resemblances here (as in other tracks too) - just a lot heavier than their previous band. 'Ambush' is a mid pace heavy number while 'Morning Sickness' ups the pace again, and like their former band, Erik and Lotta's vocals complement each other really well. The album continues at a similar pace throughout, with Erik's vocals at times reminding me of Andrea Ferro (Lacuna Coil). I personally like a sense of melody in the music I listen to, and this has it all. It is heavy, it rocks, there are no keyboard meanderings. Just straight forward melodic hard rock and metal, putting yours truly in hard rock heaven. Check the band out at www.myspace.com/themarymajor and then buy the cd. It really is good! 9/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

THE MATERIAL..'WHAT WE ARE'

(Self Release) Reviewed 18th April 2011

The Material are a new young alternative rock band from Los Angeles with their début album following on from a couple of EP's, 'Tomorrow' and 'Weather The Storm'. Their music is in the same baseball park as Flyleaf, Versa Emerge, and Paramore, if you like those bands then you will love The Material, but I also detect some Evanescence and a touch of Within Temptation's more alt-rock moments. It is great to see a new female fronted alt-rock band holding their own in the massed melee of male fronted, and Paramore's Hayley Williams had just made the front cover of Cosmopolitan magazine causing quite a stir, showing that female fronted alt-rock is making serious headway into the Gaga Britney mainstream. What We Are presents twelve emotive songs of love, loss, regret and broken hearts emotionally and passionately sung by seductive Colleen D’Agostino, with a visceral raw edge that holds nothing back. Her voice goes from a whisper on the verses to a mighty electric throat on the choruses as the band climb from quiet reflection to soaring majestic power on songs like 'Let You Down' and 'This is Goodbye'. Other songs like opening brace 'Appearances' and 'Stay Here Forever' are more full throttle, full of chiming jangling guitars, and the highlights are the lovely ballad 'The Only One' and the skilful rocker 'I'm Alive'. This is tailor made for alternative rock fans and their drapers can be found here, a finely woven 8.75/10 (Phil)

THE MURDER OF MY SWEET..'DIVANITY'

(Frontiers Records) Reviewed 30th January 2010

This Swedish mob’s name is taken from the film noire movie, ‘Murder My Sweet’, a dark, deathly, shadowy, sinister world of femme fatales, guys down on their luck, ruthless killers, and innocents caught in the crossfire, the perfect image for a gothic metal band. The dame in this particular caper is the real looker Angelica Rylin, and gee, this babe can 'arf sing. The Boss is Daniel Flores, a high pillow drummer, composer and producer, with his trusty lieutenants, Johan Niemann the harmonic lawman on bass (of the mighty Therion gang), hotshot keyman Andreas Lindahl on the old joanna (keys), and ace hit-man Daniel Palmqvist on guitar. Let's get it on the record straight from the beginning, what you get is 12 slugs of ultra catchy, gorgeously melodic, up-tempo symphonic gothic rock/metal, with choruses to die for, halfway between Within Temptation and Delain. No filler, all killer, no griller, all thriller, right up to the closing epic, ‘Death of a Movie Star’. Available from all the usual joints for a sawbuck, so, play it again Sam, if you don’t get this record, then you’ll regret it, maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, but soon and for the rest of your life. 9.5/10 (Reviewed by Phil).

THE NURI..'MASQUERADE'

(Self Release) Reviewed 28th February 2010

The simple and highly effective sleeve art give no clue as to the treasures that lie within from this young German outfit. Their music is melodic, loud/quiet, rock/metal with sophisticated musicianship from all the members, but that bare description does give their music the justice it deserves. They take elements from the best and most intelligent bands, such as Muse, Ayreon, Porcupine Tree, Radiohead, Stranglers, and Streams of Passion, and then create their own unique Nuri style. Interspersed are a couple of atmospheric instrumentals, and the incredible centrepiece, the symphonic ballad ‘The Morning’. Singer Sandra Pfeiffer has a remarkable voice, not dissimilar to Marcela Bovio, and the keys and guitars add so much delightful flourish and interest to the music that it is a truly wondrous listening experience. I find it quite staggering that a band that is this good and with so much commercial potential, is so little known, this is premier league alt/rock/metal/prog superbly self produced. This will appeal to all fans of melodic rock/metal, and thanks to their musicality, to melodic prog fans as well, just head to http://www.thenuri.de/wp/?cat=3 . Quite amazing, a very exciting discovery, I’m almost speechless, well, not quite, otherwise this would be a very short review! 9.5/10 (Reviewed by Phil)

THE PASSIVE AGGRESSIVES..'CONFLICT RESOLUTION'

(Dead Fish Records) Reviewed 9th September 2009

The name Ravenheart suggests Goth. Okay, I may not look your typical Goth (what, at my age - you have to be kiddin') but my passion lies with the Gothic Metal genre. But we at Ravenheart pride ourselves that we are not just metal heads. And this now leads me to a band from San Francisco called The Passive Aggressives. This band seem to mix (and succesfully too) hard rock, pop, funk, and prog, all with the vocals of leading lady Keren Gaiser. It is pretty cool stuff and 'Conflict Resolution' is a pleasant listening experience. Some good songs here including the title track, and I even found this record ideal background music while having friends around at Ravenheart Towers, with the inevevitable question -"what cd is that you have on Dave?" If you like the idea of Tool and Primus mixed with Heart and Evanescence, then this is worth checking out. Cool stuff, including The Turtles cover 'Happy Together'. Check them out at www.myspace.com/aggressives 8/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

THE REASONING..'DARK ANGEL'

(Comet Music) Reviewed 5th May 2009

Dark Angel is the second album from The Reasoning, a ‘prog’ rock band from Wales . I have put inverted commas around ‘prog’ because the tag normally attached to them does not do justice to their music. There are no widdly solos or weird time signatures, but melodic rock songs that should appeal to a very wide audience. Featuring 3 lead singers, the folkish Rachel Cohen (ex Karnataka), Dylan Thompsons’s rock, and Gareth Jones ballad, this just about sums up their range. The album ranges from the gothic rock of ‘Dark Angel’, to the metal of ‘Call ME God’, to the radio friendly ‘Breaking the 4th Wall’. They are also a great live band, very, very entertaining, I’ve rarely heard an audience sing so much! With the right push this band could become massive; they have the look, the songs and the ability 9/10 (Reviewed by Phil Wooldridge)

t.h.e. SACRAMENT..'THE SOBERING COLD'

(Self Release) Reviewed 18th March 2010

The brand new debut from the Russian sextet, featuring the pop/rock vocals of the delectable Lora SS on vocals, and the equally seductive Juliett on keys. They started to record this back in 2006, but various trials and tribulations befell the band, and it is to their enormous credit that at last we can all enjoy the fruit of their labours. The music is somewhat similar to a less symphonic, more rock orientated Within Temptation. This gives the band plenty of space to play, Kirill showing off his impressive collection of cymbals, Still putting in some fancy bass fills, and a variety of solos from the plank spankers, Om and Vlad, as well as Juiliett of course. They also love going off piste with some very unusual musical moments, for example on ‘I’ve Got Only One Day’ they briefly turn into Santana! All this makes for a varied, fascinating and pleasurable listening experience. There are the occasional incongruous growls, which do not suit their lighter style, thankfully they are only brief. Highlights, well, every song will provide plenty of entertainment, but I was particularly taken by the driving rock of ‘New Life’, the slow boogie of ‘I’ve Got Only One Day’, the Fleetwood Mac excursion on ‘Light of Illusions’, the majestic ‘Cover Me’ and the dramatic ‘The Little Kingdom’. The whole CD is professionally packaged and produced, with the mastering done at the famous Finnvox studios. If you’re a Within Temptation enthusiast, celebrate this wonderful discovery with a few glasses of whatever tickles your fancy (mines a bottle of Delirium Tremens, lovely, I think it’s your round), and then enjoy The Sobering Cold at www.myspace.com/the-sacrament. 8.5/10 (Reviewed by Phil)

THE SOUNDS..'DYING TO SAY THIS TO YOU'

Korava Records) Reviewed 20th March 2007

A quick review/ This cd has wandered our way. 16 tracks inc 6 bonus tracks!! A pop/rock cd with vocals that I find a little annoying at times, reminding me a little of Avril Lavigne (who I do not find annoying!). Nonetheless, this is synth driven pop rock from these Swedish rockers, like a cross between Blondie and The Killers (Hot Fuss). Not bad, and deserving 7/10 (Reviewed by Laura).

THE STORM..'BLACK LUCK'

(WR Productions/Target Records Denmark) Reviewed 16th May 2010

Since the band was founded, The Storm has been one of Denmark’s absolute most renowned and talked about bands in both the media and amongst music fans. Their 2007 Universal Records debut, ’Where The Storm Meets The Ground’ with production by Roy Thomas Baker (Queen etc), has already gone platinum. And while nations abroad are curiously monitoring the band, The Storm is currently touring Denmark with nothing but sold out shows – quite an achievement for a band that has only existed since 2006. Their success can be put down to the collaboration between two of Denmark’s most respected musicians and performers - Johan Wohlert and Pernille Rosendahl (Vox), who are also together in their private life aswell. The music on this their second record, sees Universal Records replaced by their own label, in close collaboration with metal-connoisseurs Target Records. And what a release we have here. 10 tracks of awesome melodic/alternative/hard rock, every track being a right corker. The comparison that springs to mind is (maybe) Kelly Clarkson kinda going metal! 'Wall of Shame' is a great start to this album and it never lets up, with numbers like 'Are Your Shoes Too Tight', that refuse to leave your head. Typical in-fact of all the songs on this superb cd. But the best I feel is the duo of 'Herculean Task' that siegues perfectly into the title track during the second half of the record. These two tracks you could say combine to bring a piece of music that lasts over 8 minutes, and throws eveything at you, barring the kitchen sink. There is even a brief flirtation with techno! From start to finish, this cd has it all, and I am very near gobsmacked. If you like your music, heavy and very melodic, contact Target Records at http://www.targetshop.dk/thestorm/ and get a copy. I did!! Awesome..9.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

THE STORM..'BLACK LUCK'

(Spinefarm Records) Reviewed 23rd November 2010

I reviewed the 10 track Danish import of this album back in mid May, but thanks to the lovely people at Spinefarm, they have made this album rather more widely available. What's more, there are also three extra tracks on this release, the additional tracks lifted from the band's debut release 'Where The Storm Meets The Ground', an album itself that is damn cool!. By and large, my view of this record has not changed since my first review back in May, and the three extra tracks, 'Beauty of Small Things', 'Lullaby' and 'Drops in the Ocean' add further dimension to an album that can already be classed as a classic. If the people at Spinefarm really got behind this record, it will be big, and could well propel The Storm to mega stardom, and so it should. An album full of classic rock tunes choked full of melody..get it 10/10 (Reviewed by Dave)

THE WAY OF PURITY..'CROSSCORE'

(Aural/Wormhole Death) Reviewed 27th November 2010

Ravenheart Dave has given me this album to review, bearing in mind my past experience of the genre, I once being the keys player in a male fronted extreme metal band. With vocals by some character who goes by the name 'Withoutname' (love it), and female vocals by Betty, it has to be said that what we have here is purely and simply 10 tracks and around half an hour of Death Metal. I know Dave has trouble getting his head around music like this, but to my ears, this is pretty good stuff. The album does slow down on occasion, 'The Rise of Noah' being one such track, one of the more melodic & accessible offerings in-fact, featuring the near folk like vocals of Betty. The Female vocals do put in occasional appearances throughout, but generally, this is heavy, sexy and ear splitting metal, with melody always bubbling under the surface! 8.25/10 (Reviewed by Rachel)

THERION..'GOTHIC KABBALAH'

(Nuclear Blast) Reviewed 19th February 2007

A quick review! This is a double cd that has a running time of around 85 minutes. This cd has female vocals, male vocals, choirs. It is pompous, it is progressive, it is gothic and it rocks. It may not appeal to fans of Evanescence, and it may perhaps take a few listens to appreciate, but overall it is good. 'The Wand Of Arabis' is one of my stand out tracks. Check this album out. 7.5/10 (Reviewed by Aimee)

THERION..'SITRA AHRA'

(Nuclear Blast) Reviewed 22nd September 2010

Since the sprawling double album Gothic Kabbalah all of Christofer Johnsson’s crew have jumped ship, including the important Niemann brothers and drummer Peter Karlsson. With a new team and Therion’s reputation for constant change, what will the new more manageable single album bring? Joining Aesma Daeva’s opera diva Lori Lewis is new vocalist Thomas Vikström whose voice ranges from a rich tenor to metal, with trusty old Snowy Shaw also helping out, together with the massed choirs and various opera soloists. The lyrics are as usual by Swedish occultist Thomas Karlsson about various mythical and pagan legends together with the Sitra Ahra which is a supernatural evil force that’s the opposite of good in the ancient Jewish Kabbalah teachings. Therion are credited with inventing symphonic metal in the mid 1990’s with the amalgam of opera, choirs, and orchestra to heavy metal, but their music has many other dimensions. We kick off in fine style with the strutting, marching ‘Sitra Ahra’, and it is clear that the massed choirs are back with a vengeance, filling every track. ‘Kings of Edom’ (an Iron Age kingdom in southern Jordan) continues in similar vein, but this time the song changes in pace with everything from stately to sedate to a gallop, very clever. ‘Unguentum Sabbati’ (European pagan folklore) rampages along with a hint of Phantom of the Opera, with Snowy sounding like a singing Dalek, I half expected him to shout EXTERMINATE!!!! The epic ‘Land of Canaan’ (an ancient Middle Eastern area around Israel) starts as a B52’s style groover with Vox organ, then turns spaghetti western complete with harmonica, it turns into a cowboy waltz, then we are in Fiddler on the Roof, followed by a paper and comb waltz, and finally a Broadway show, barking mad but brilliant. ‘Hellequin’ (the French devil’s horseman and probable origin of Harlequin) is a rocking tune that verges on the Doctor Who theme at one point, followed by the seriously groovy, even danceable, ‘2012’, even though it’s about the Mayan prediction for the destruction of the world. ‘Cú Chulainn’ sounds like a Welsh male voice choir singing a carol between the heavier sections, but the lyrics are about the Irish mythical king. Another dramatic rocking tune ‘Kali Yuga, Pt. 3’ (ancient Indian scripture) is followed by the jolly bouncing 2/4 ‘The Shells are Open’ (about an evil force in the Kabbalah) with its rousing refrain. The brief, thrashing and suitably titled ‘Din’ (about the Sitra Ahra) made me realise that this album isn’t at all heavy, in fact, more rock than metal. Final cut ‘After the Inquisition: Children of the Stone’ sounds like a hymn written by Rick Wakeman with a schoolboy choir even though it is about the witch trials and pagan mysticism (they mention the nun Mary/Maria von Mossau who was one of last people to be executed for witchcraft in Germany). Ignoring the incongruity it is a beautiful song, indeed throughout the album the generally upbeat music is often in stark contrast with the dark and obscure lyrical themes. This album distils all that’s best about Therion in one easy to digest package, and its accessibility makes it a perfect introduction for those new to the band. Being on Nuclear Blast it will be easily available from all your favourite stockists. All in all this is a brilliant album, 9/10 (Reviewed by Phil)

3RD ROOM..'FRAME OF MIND'

(Independent Release) Reviewed 3rd December 2007

My friend Molly from ROTT brought this band to my attention. 3rd Room fronted by Khay Lenitas are from Italy, and the band very kindly sent me their 4 track cd, which is a very good showcase for this band's talent. The cd by the way does also offer a video to the track 'In My Room'. I like what is on offer in this tasty little package. This is one for fans of Nightwish and similar, although they do not clone Nightwish by any means. All four tracks here are strong efforts, but I do like the opener 'Falling Leaf'. Music like this again confirms to me how much good music is out there waiting to be snapped up by a label. If only the labels would take the chance and snap it up. Anyway, label or not, this is a pretty good effort and should be checked out by fans of the genre. Visit them at www.myspace.com/enterinmyroom . You know you should! 7.5/10 (Reviewed by Dave).

THY SYMPHONY..'HARMONIZING THE WORLD'

(Sleazy Rider) Reviewed 3rd November 2010

Brazilians Thy Symphony have a history going back to 2001, but they have suffered a lot of trials and tribulations along the way, and it has taken an enormous amount of dedication and perseverance to finally release this debut album. They specialise in creating dramatic, thundering, anthemic, almighty, colossal, fast and furious Rhapsody meets Nightwish meets Wagner symphonic power metal soundtracks crammed with soaring strings, rasping brass and massed choirs. They are fronted by the captivating Camila Senne with her awesome operatic voice with a delightful vibrato and Allan Ortiona who has a mighty metal and operatic tenor voice, they make a truly wonderful combination. Songs like ‘Eternal Life’ and ‘Rising From The Sun’ are glorious rousing sword waving battle hymns while tunes such as title track ‘Harmonizing the World’ and ‘Lord of the Seas’ see them fearlessly galloping headlong into the valley of death like the Charge of the Light Brigade with cannons to the left and cannons to the right. The bursts of double bass drumming have Matthew Liles peddling faster than Lance Armstrong being chased by Attila the Hun, his feet must be a smoking blur, he’s just left the band, he probably ended up in Peru. There are several numbers like the magnificent ‘Sun and Moon’ that feature segments that remind me of Greg Lake’s fabulous contributions to ELP’s Works (C’est La Vie et al), great favourites of mine. The catchiest number is ‘Broken Wings’ and it culminates with the blockbuster ‘The Brave From Highlands’, a song so titanic you will need a lie down afterwards to recover your senses. This is an album that will blow you away like a raging hurricane. If you’re still clinging onto the wreckage, stagger to www.myspace.com/thysymphony where you can find out how to buy this symphonic metal masterpiece, a highly harmonizing 9.5/10 (Reviewed by Phil).