Silent Opera – “Reflections” (2014)

Label: Massacre Records

Review by Tony Cannella

Not to be confused with the female fronted Italian metal band of the same name, THIS Silent Opera hails from France and were formed in 2007. In 2010 this symphonic power/death metal band released their inaugural EP, “Act One”. Now the band is signed to Massacre and the release of their full-length debut (“Reflections”) is upon us.

The first thing about “Reflections” that got my attention was the duel male/female vocals utilized by Silent Opera. Laura Laborde’s vocals are very much in the operatic range whilst Steven Shriver uses the death metal style of singing. Next, Silent Opera combines dramatic classy epic style numbers with more aggressive, thrashy material, their ability to do that with conviction is a testament to the diversity of the band. I may be wrong here but musically, the band strikes me as somewhat theatrical and cinematic as well. Continue reading »

Sabbath Assembly – “Quaternity” (2014)

Label: Svart Records/Ajna Offensive

Review by Alessandra Cognetta

“Quaternity” is Sabbath Assembly‘s answer on the matter of the Christian concept of Trinity. The band’s third album once again explores the theology of the Process Church of the Final Judgment, that acknowledges four deities: Lucifer, the light bearer; Satan, the source of primal strength; Jehovah, the vengeful destroyer and Christ, the master of death. Dave “Xtian” Nuss and Jamie Myers bring us a mainly acoustic work, but with new and improved elements.

The most important innovation from “Ye Are Gods” is that this time the lyrics are original and not direct adaptations of the Processian hymns, except for “Lucifer”, which features a contribution from a former Processian, whose voice can be heard right at the beginning of the song as foundation for the rest of the piece. Continue reading »

Jamie Myers – Sabbath Assembly

Interview by Alessandra Cognetta

Jamie Myers is the lead singer of Sabbath Assembly, a US-based band that has been adapting and arranging into music texts and hymns of the Process Church of the Final Judgment, whose theology acknowledges four deities: Christ, Satan, Lucifer and Jehovah. Their music is a skillful combination of acoustic elements, declamation, eerie atmospheres and even a bit of doom, making Sabbath Assembly one of the most interesting feats on the scene. Their new album, “Quaternity”, is out on the 28th of March through Svart Records and in this interview Jamie gives us a wide insight on the band’s work, her thoughts on the Process Church and reminds us how many empowering female fronted bands we could be inspired from in the 80s-90s.

exist†trace – “Diamond” MAXI SINGLE (2013)

Independent Release

Review by Tony Cannella

From Japan, the all female band exist†trace have been around for a number of years and have already released quite a few albums and EPs. Their latest EP was actually released in 2013 and it is called “Diamond”. The EP contains only 3-songs and about 15-minute minutes worth of music and is a testament to far ranging, global appeal of metal. The opening track, “DIAMOND” sets the tempo with an electronic influenced beginning before launching into an infectiously wicked fast paced tune. The next track “Kuchibiru” has a definite 70s classic rock vibe to it and a guitar riff that would make Jimi Hendrix or Eric Clapton proud. For the final track “Just One” the band speeds up the pace and introduces more modern influences.  Continue reading »

Noora Louhimo – Battle Beast

Interview by Crix

Battle Beast is a heavy metal band from Finland, with their last self-title album we have had the confirm that everything works well in this band. They describe themselves as a band that stands for everything that is good and pure in metal music – crunching riffs, high screams, blistering solos and strong choruses. Really one of the most energic band I’ve ever seen live. We have the opportunity to interview with the beautifull and talented singer Noora.

Thank you very much.

Well, I’m Noora and I came in this band a little bit over a year ago after the previous singer left the band unexpectedly and it’s been the best time of my life. Continue reading »