Massacre records seem to have an uncanny knack at pulling these sorts of bands out the hat and this is another that have very little in the way of history to talk about. In fact although they formed in 2004, they only have released one demo so far in 2007 called ‘Red Winter Snow’ and this is their official debut. Apparently they have played a fair bit alongside label mates Coronatus on the German club scene and obviously created an impression to get signed so early in their career. Ever the sceptic a first listen had me thinking ho-hum but by second I was beginning to get won over and now I am reeled and enjoying this a lot more.
These 11 numbers are dealt with very confidently over a perfect 46 minute running time and have the power of a much more established female fronted symphonic metal band behind them. Lovers of frock rock are going to find plenty to enjoy here. Starting off with ‘Ray Of Hope’ the band are quick to catch attention with this uplifting number. Maike Holzmann has a sirenesque voice and there is plenty of might behind the orchestration, as for the melodic chorus it’s the ace in the hole and incredibly strong. The vocals are sung in English as well making this quite easy for those of us over this neck of the woods to understand. ‘Twisting The Knife’ as we have come to expect adds some gruff beast vocals from keyboard player Lukas Palme. They may not be necessary, think it’s fair to say the jury is still out on this technique but it does add a contrast even if I have to be critical and say he hasn’t got that good a growl behind him. Still this is very much about the lady and she does indeed captivate and the bombastic ammo from the keyboards also makes up for other things as he hits the symphonic button at all the right times and keeps the pace burgeoning.
There are plenty of numbers here that you can happily wave your flag along to at a festival (I can see this lot winning over a Bloodstock crowd) and softer more ballad like odes to get the lighter out for. Singer Maike is obviously a good soprano and in the quieter parts her voice shines through. On the other hand I have to admit that none of the choruses are quite as melodic as that first number, although songs like ‘Endeavour For Life’ are not too far behind. I guess I might be overly critical here as I get so much of this sort of stuff and every time I listen to this it grabs me a bit more. For a debut this is well worth checking out for those of you into the likes of Epica, Within Temptation and Sirenia.
http://www.myspace.com/voicesofdestinylb
