ELYSION - review added 2nd December 2009
Album Review: Silent Scr3am (2009)
For fans of: Gothic Metal... and the top end of female metal vocalizing
Silent Scr3am is the debut album from Greek gothic metallers Elysion. The band was founded in 2006 by guitarist and composer Johnny Zero, and is currently rounded out by Christianna on vocals, the unusually titled FXF on bass, and
Petros Fatis on drums.
Their sound is a moody, atmospheric, crystal clear take on bands like The Gathering and Within Temptation. Ted Jensen (Madonna, Evanescence, Iron Maiden, Slipknot, Nickelback, Korn, Marilyn Manson) engineered the music in his own Sterling Sound Studios in America. His time was worth whatever investment it took as this is one of the finest quality records you could ever hope to hear. If it was any sharper you could use it to shave your bikini line.
The big selling point has to be Christianna and her utterly mesmerising vocal performance. I'm not going to describe her as the very best female operatic-style vocalist in metal because there's a lot of competition out there. However, she is definitely amongst the best and there's no doubt this record gives her a superb metaphorical stage on which to shine.
In general, this style of music isn't necessarily my thing - it certainly isn't something I'd listen to whilst relaxing by the pool with a glass of Pimms - but the quality shines through like sunlight through a break in the cloud. Numerous tracks have a big hook or memorable chorus, something you don't often find in superficially darker forms of music such as this. Full marks go to Elysion being so true to their art and, at the same time, accessible and friendly.
Top songs are 'Killing My Dreams', 'Don't Say A Word', 'The Rules', 'Bleeding' and 'Walk Away', although in truth none of the album is anything less than excellent. There is, I admit, a certain sameness and lack of variety throughout, but it doesn't grate as much as it sometimes might. On balance the credit goes to Johnny Zero and his guitar and synth flourishes which break up proceedings just enough.
If this is a genre you get a kick from this'll put a big bruise on your smiling, tear-filled face. This is a fantastic album with sublime performances and way more charm than I'd ever have thought possible.
Check out... That voice.
Track List:
1. Dreamer
2. Killing My Dreams
3. Never Forever
4. Weakness In Your Eyes
5. Don't Say A Word
6. The Rules
7. Bleeding
8. Walk Away
9. Loss
10. Far From The Edge
11. Erase Me
Label: Massacre
Artist's website(s): MySpace
