If the last Within Temptation album left you a bit unsatisfied, you need not worry. The band are back on form and have taken themselves to the next level. Move over Nightwish. Your crown has been well and truly taken from you.
Lyriel: Paranoid Circus
I know very little about this lot except for the fact they are very talented. Their intro reminds me of Cabaret with its multi-language introduction. It's clear this album is at least in part a weird concept album. The lead singer sounds a dead ringer for Candice Night of Blackmore's Night. In fact, much of this album, especially in its more mellow parts, reminds one of Blackmore's medieval marauding mandolin-toting musos, no more so than on "Lullaby". This bunch are German, which is no surprise considering BK's popularity there, and take the whole genre to a new level.
Some may scoff as the folk medieval metal scene, but when done well it can be great fun. This is melodic female-sung rock at its best. With this release, the band can squarely be seen as contemporaries to some of the above reviewed bands. Even the singing on this release is less elfin and more gruff. Unlike some of these bands, the lead singer has realized that variety in her voice is always a good thing.
The album is noot necessarily one full of tracks that leap out at you on first listen. But as with Midnattsol, after a few listens, you will be hooked.
Well that is your leather and lace music for this spring. As always, keep it safe and rocking.
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