Label : Massacre Records
Review by Tony Cannella
Katanga is a Gothic Rock/Metal outfit from Germany. Their second album (“Moonchild”) is out now via Massacre Records and the band is fronted by duel male/female vocals although the lion’s share of the vocals is handled by the male singer Mario. Their style reminds me a bit of Moonspell, Sisters of Mercy, Atrocity or HIM. What you get on “Moonchild” is 18-songs and well over an hour’s worth of darkly romantic Gothic music that is well played, lyrics that are sung mostly in German and a pacing to the songs that is mostly up-tempo. The opening intro “Marquis de Sade” sets the pacing and from there Katanga demonstrates their brand Gothic Metal. Male vocalist Mario has a style that is reminiscent of the guy from Moonspell. Some of my favorites included: 1-minute a capella track “When Darkness Fall” which almost has a Doors vibe to it, this leads into my favorite and one of the faster tracks “Moonchild”. “I’m Gonna Die for You” is also deserving of a mention for being a standout track. Also present on “Moonchild” is the usage of violins. Despite Mario being the main vocalist, female singer Doreen does a great job when she is called upon. “Moonchild” by Katanga grew on me with each listen. If I had one complaint is that it was maybe a little on the long side, but still the band does a good job with keeping it interesting for the most part.
Rating – 77/100
Tracklist
- Marquis de Sade
- Gottlos
- Moerder der Erinnerung
- When Darkness Falls
- Moonchild
- Mein Traum
- Lemuria
- I’m Gonna Die for You
- Schwarze Fluegel Metropolis
- Metamorphosis
- Mondscheinkind
- Das Nichts
- Mondscheinfahrt
- Bittermond
- Batflight (New Version)
- From Dusk Till Dawn (New Version)
- Death of the Fun Generation (New Version)
Line Up
- Mario – Vocals & Guitars
- Doreen – Female Vocals
- Michael – Guitars
- Wilko – Bass
- Daniel – Drums
Links