Lacuna Coil - Shallow Life

I've been waiting to write this blog for quite some time. My respect for Lacuna Coil, as with a lot of their other fans, waned after they released Karmacode. All due respect to the album, it was a great, guitar driven album, but after waiting for many moons after the release of Comalies, it just didn't whet the appetite of those wanting some more atmospheric fuelled metal, such as myself. ;)

Shallow Life opens with Survive. As a song, again, i have to respect that it achieve in becoming what it probably was intended to be- a rocky track reminiscent of the bands prior release- the aforementioned Karmacode. Not a terrible start, but nothing to surprise or shock what had been expected from this release. What does stand out, for me, is the chanting that occurs part-way through the song. A subtle addition that adds a depth to the track, and makes the composition considerably more interesting.

I Won't Tell You runs a more melodic route- and Cristina Scabbia's vocals especially shine for the first time- complimenting Andrea's. It seems to take new steps for Lacuna Coil- not back into their atmospheric beginnings as many would hope, but treading new ground in the rock scene. A catchy track, and without doubt a great addition to the bands back catalogue of creations.

Scabbia takes prominence over Andrea for the first time- soaring in the chorus and bridge of Not Enough, the first highlight of Shallow Life. A blistering chorus that is only perfected by Cristina's powerful tones sees the band producing not just another great creation, but a potential hit single.



The album pushes forward, once more with Cristina taking center stage for I'm Not Afraid. The middle-eastern vibes return from Karmacode, with Scabbia's serene calls. Sadly, the song, for me, has nothing special and remains one of the most uninspired tracks on the album. Far from being terrible, or even bad, just predictable.

Mainstream rock takes audio form in the next track- I Like It. Despite a somewhat cheesy refrain from the lead-lady, the song has a catchy chorus and would fare well as a single, indefinitely. As a track, I Like It stands out from the other songs on offer- but whether that is a good thing or not remains for each listener to decide.

A darker sound, accompanied by Linkin Park styled electronics See's Underdog take Shallow Life in a new direction. Surprisingly, Andrea sounds particularly suited to this style, and with Cristina's backing, the vocals only make the track better. Another highlight, and a great return to form from the band.

The second half of Shallow Life proves to be the standout segment, as The Pain steps on more unknown territory. Industrial elements and alluring synths thrive for a more mellow sound- successfully topped off with Cristina's dulcet tones. Despite feeling that this song may have benefited more from a solo performance from Cristina, the track remains a favourite and a positive hint back to Comalies-styled material. Passionate and beautiful.

Spellbound fell under intense criticism from some Lacuna Coil fans for being too predictable, whilst it was hailed in equal measure from other audiences. Personally, the song acts perfectly as lead single. Presenting a sense of the album, as it does, and grabbing the listeners attention with a catchy and distinct chorus, another thing it succeeds in doing. Evidently an opinion divider, the track, admittedly, may be considerably akin to their Karmacode material, but certainly excels it, in my opinion, with it's excellent musicianship.

The albums first true ballad comes in the form of Wide Awake. Lead by a beautiful piano refrain. Without a doubt, one of the best tracks Lacuna Coil have put their name to. Trying something new seems to be the theme of Shallow Life, as this song sees them like never before and at emotional extremes. Cristina rightfully leads the stunning epic and the chorus is simply to die for. Exceptionally beautiful and an awaited success from the band.

Andrea returns and once again finds his perfect grounding on the verses of The Maze. The chorus may be a little underwhelming, but the verses and Cristina herself save it from failure. A good track, could certainly be better, but a good track nonetheless.

The penultimate track on this release, Unchained, is another potential single. Embedding itself and it's vocal lines into your subconscious, the track leads perfectly to a close by bringing together all that Shallow Life has promoted- amazing vocals, catchy refrains and excellent musicianship.



Shallow Life ends with it's title track. Taking the brave decision to end with another mellow, industrial heavy composition that sees the band evolve from the monotony of Karmacode, contrasting it with the utter experimentation of Shallow Life.

Without a doubt, nothing i expected or desired from Lacuna Coil returned on Shallow Life. However, the bands evolution and progression has produced a record that i enjoyed and embraced not as a disappointed Lacuna Coil fan, but as a fan that has accepted their growth and thankfully found the beauty in it.

8/10

Interview: Bim 'Taking The Right Steps' [Ambient / Electro]

Bim are a british electro outfit, currently supporting the release of their debut album. The duo are part of the internet sensation: sellaband.com which elevates artists into the eyes of a wider audience, here we speak to Tim Davis about Sellaband, gigging and their eighth album...

First of all, how did you hear about Sellaband?
Katy Davis (my sister) produced the video for Second Person's 'Gone Fishing'. After hearing the band, we saw they were on a site called sellaband.. and haven't looked back!

How do you feel your Sellaband journey is going so far?
Well enough! We are still slowly creeping up the list, almost reaching the top 20 in the world. All the hard work is paying off - but there is still lots and lots to do!

Who are you're influences?
Eeek! This is a hard question! I learnt to write songs after growing up listening to the likes of Eric Clapton, Elton John, Enya and Queen. Through my teenage years I was very much into rock bands, and loved the crossover between electro and rock. Bands like Pitchshifter and Deftones were some of my favourites. Nowadays I like to use the phrase 'anything that's good' - sorry for being vague, but it's true!

We both keep a keen eye on the commercial side of music, always being interested in what is popular and 'chart-worthy'. I guess that's why we aren't a crazy-electro group - maybe for our 8th album, hehe!

How do you feel when you gain a new believer?
I feel proud. Becoming a believer shows that there is a lot of respect and faith for the music, and us as people.

Will Bim be touring/performing soon?
Yes! We are currently finding band members to play live with us - and have been playing acoustic shows with cello, piano and voice. It takes time to grow as a live act, and we are certainly taking the right steps to get there!

What will the future hold for the band?
I believe it will hold everything we dream of. Sellaband will be a fantastic stepping stone for us. I can't wait to record the album.

Finally, Any message for your fans/believers?
Stay with us! We will not forget about your amazing support. Thank you for inspiring us to continue in this rollercoaster of a journey!

Bim @ Sellaband

Official Bim Website

Interview: Invey 'It's All Rock 'N' Roll Baby' [Metal]

Invey are the self proclaimed 'Hate Fuelled' saviors of british metal. Constantly touring, and advertising themselves, they have recently released their debut cd: 'Addiction For Comfort'. Lead vocalist Claire Natalie tells us about the bands future as they continue to tour the country

What is Invey? Is it a made up word...?
It's an old English word that means to curse or to verbally harrass someone. It's kinda apt.

How far back do the band go? When were you formed?
Invey was formed about four years ago when we started writing and played Bloodstock.

You played at Bloodstock 2003, How was that?
Wicked, there's an atmosphere that's completely different to any other festival we've done.

Who inspires you, personally?
We all have different personal influences that span pop to hardcore. Hopefully that comes across well in our music.

What would you say was the high point of you're career so far?
I don't know If I can answer that yet, we've not been going long enough to have had a real career. It's like Britney writing an autobiography and everyone thing well hell your only 18 how can you write a book about your life already. I will say we love playing though and if there's an audience that get's you then that's always a good feeling.

...and the low point?
None really you take the good with the bad.

Before Addiction For Comfort, had you recorded any material?
An E.P. called Release.

What is the most receptive song at concerts?
Usually Release. It's the video that's had the most promotion. There's a new one called F.U.L that's always well received though.

Have you ever had any embarrassing moments on stage?
Every time we play I always fall over or do something stupid. I kinda zone out though and don't notice cables and stuff, one time I fell over about five times in one show that was really funny but no one mentioned it.

What does the future hold for Invey?
Hopefully a few people will buy the album and turn up to our shows. Other than that it's all rock n' roll baby.

Claire, you're movements on stage are often very energetic, do you dance outside of Invey?
Only when I'm drunk...

Invey Official
Invey @ Myspace

Interview: Tiffany Gow - "No Fear. No Doubt." [Metal / Rock]

Sellaband.com, the latest method of getting noticed is slowly but surely becoming an accomplished route to success. With artists such as Julia Marcell, Vegas Dragons and Nemesea, among others, obtaining a vast majority of support from the site, its progress looks likely to grow more and more. One of the most dedicated artists on the website, and one of the most determined, Tiffany Gow finally made a break for the top 10 artists recently, and it seems nothing is going to get in her way...

Tiffany, thanks so much for taking the time for this interview. First of all, how did you discover sellaband.com?

My Best Friend, Mr Brian Taylor of Vegas Dragons was walking along the main street in Sydney when he noticed a Newspaper clipping. He was originally attracted to the article because he loves Science Fiction and thought it was a related Article. As by an incredible twist of fate, it was actually about 'Sellaband' and the concept of having an opportunity of investing in an Artists future. He told me and showed me the site. We of course, immediately joined up. It was an incredible opportunity that from Day One we both knew we had every success at achieving and that we are proof that you can definitely achieve 50K on Sellaband.

Brian has successfully reached 50K and is working in the Pre-production of his Sellaband album and I am extremely proud to say that I have the honor of being included on Page One. I have come so far, in January I was approximately Page 3/4 and on $1000. Team Tiff is progressing very fast daily and we are living proof with extreme consistent hard work you can be well on your way to 50K and then actually achieve it.

On the subject of believers, you are also a believer aswell as an artist, so what draws you personally to believe in an artist?

First and foremost, the way the music makes me feel. I am an extremely emotional person, so I have to feel it well in my bones. It either has to do one of two things (preferably both !) either make me feel fantastic or make me cry. If it doesn't do anything remotely for me with those emotions - forget it ! A positive attitude and creative thinking is essential.

A big turnoff for me is an Artist/Band that is exceptionally talented but logs in once a month or even longer than a month. Sellaband should be taken as seriously as any other job. It is great to make friends and have fun but if you want to be taken seriously you have to work hard and regularly.
This is your career and should be approached with the utmost professionalism.

Your debut CD, No Fear is available to believers, what is you're favourite song from it?

Absolutely without a doubt the title track of the Album "No Fear". The memory of writing this song is as clear as yesterday. I was sitting on a train going to work. I was so depressed and sad. I hated my life. Going to work each day to a job that I could not stand in order to fund my music was heart wrenching and that's how "No Fear" was born. I saw so many people (and sadly still do today) that go to work day in and out to a job they hate just in order to put food on the table and live. We all must live but surely there is that one thing that they are passionate about doing, that could also finance daily living ? I wrote from the aspect that if I really do not go for my dreams, I may wake up miserable too and that really scares me. I sadly have a friend who wanted to be a successful musician but his partner become pregnant and well....you can figure out the rest. It is so sad but I always remember him. You can see the sadness and regret in his eyes. It breaks my heart and is a motivating factor for me.


... And which song would you say you would most like to Revisit/Re-record if you got a chance?

To be really honest - none. I am very proud of the album. It reflected that time of my life and I am very proud of the songs I wrote. I am extremely so happy to say that my voice has become so incredibly strong. I am really evolving as an Artist and I really I like the person am I. I come along way since musically and personally recording "No Fear".

As a female in the metal scene, how do you cope? Do you feel it is harder/easier to achieve success if you're a female?

I don't really think about it to be honest, as the number of Female Rock/Metal singers is increasing all the time. I just go out on Stage and concentrate on singing the best I possibly can. I look up to Gwen Stefani, she is a great example that a "Rock Chick" can match the guys any day.
I feel there is equal opportunity for both sexes. Looks and Images are skin deep and Ultimately it is a combination of your music, hard work, attitude, being at the right place at the right time and fate/destiny at the end of the day that determines your success - Male or Female.

You will always get some criticism but i am strong enough to cope with petty jealously.


Give us an insight into the Tiffany, away from music.
What hobbies do you have other than music? We hear you're a very busy girl...

You mean when I am not working 45-60 hrs a week ? !!!! I work quite hard but the only reason is to fund my dreams and the remainder to live on. I try to remember this at work, so I constantly remind myself of the whole point of doing it.

I Love cooking !!! Hence where the autographed spoon came from ! But sadly do not have alot of time anymore. I cook at every given opportunity.

I love seeing live gigs and movies. I am a huge fan of movies and sadly walk around often quoting famous lines from my Favorite flicks !

Spending time with my family and my best friend is really important to me. They are everything to me and are so supportive and truly genuine people.

One of my biggest passions is Rugby league. I was born and bred into a Football town, where (and no I am not kidding !) most people are Rugby league mad !!! I love to Kick back on a weekend and watch the footy with a cold beer with my family/friends. It is a simple but extremely enjoyable part of my life. The Knight tattoo on my left arm is my team's emblem !!!!!

(The Newcastle Knights).


What are the plans for the next year or so, with your music?

I plan on making 50k within the next 4-5 months at the most. I am aiming to achieve 50k earlier than this. I am extremely confident that I will be at 50K within this time frame, if not earlier. I am gaining incredible momentum. I am progressing quite steadily every day. The support from my Sellaband friends is absolutely amazing, I have no doubt at all about reaching 50K soon.

When I do, I am going to make an Incredibly high quality CD. I will make sure it is the absolute best I can produce and then extensively go out and promote it. Have Fan days to sign autographs and give back to the beautiful people that have made Team Tiff the success it is.

I will be singing on one song on the Vegas Dragons album in December/ January. I am so excited and honoured to be doing this. I would love to work at some point with Vegas Dragons also.

Touring, either Solo or as a support act is a huge goal of mine for 2008.

I have always dreamed of performing with Bon Jovi at some point of my career, whether that be 2008 or little later, it is still a goal I would love to achieve. Any opportunity given to me, I will indeed grab with both hands and work really hard. Touring Europe has always been a huge dream of mine. I have found that alot people from European countries love my music. The Sky is the limit-I plan on being extremely successful and repaying back the faith of my friends well beyond 2008.

2008 will be Fantastic but I know that after achieving 50K, the hard work will always continue. I will enjoy every moment but continually work hard to maintain and improve success. Always making sure my family and fans are being properly taken cared of an their faith repaid.

Is There Any Plan To Tour/Perform Soon?

I have performed many, many successful shows and I will continue to perform shows till the day I die. There is nothing like the feeling of performing. It is such a buzz and there is truly nothing else on the planet that can make you feel like this. The support and fan base I have is incredible and it motivates me so very much. Fan participation at shows is so important. It is not only about seeing me perform, it is about enjoying the moment with your fans and ensuring they have a great time too.

If you had an unlimited budget, and unlimited time, what type of cd would you create, genre-wise?

I would experiment with many different styles such as Opera, Jazz, latin infused with Rock and Metal. I just love Rock fusion.

With an Unlimited Budget I would collaborate with some of my idols such as Bon Jovi and Chris Cornell (Audioslave). I am a huge fan of Linkin Park and would at some point of my career produce a song/s similiar in style to their Rap/Metal fusion sound.

Basically just experiment with sound and put on my album what sounds great and feel right.

How do you feel when you notice believers have put their faith in you?

Extremely grateful and Happy. I do not take any of my friends faith and hard earned money for granted and never,ever will. What they are doing for the team is incredible and I truly cannot Thank all my Beautiful friends enough. They see incredible potential in my recording career and envision success. My believers motivate and encourage the best out of me so much. When a friend believes, it only makes me work stronger and harder and re-inforces my self belief and creative abilities. Their faith gives re-confirms that I will definately achieve 50K with absolute certainity.

You recently duetted with Dandelium, a fellow Sellaband artist, What is the song 'Stronger' about?

The music of 'Stronger' was written by Dandelium. However, I wrote the lyrics and arranged the vocal structure.

The lyrics are about being locked away in an unhappy relationship. Your true self being pushed down and buried. It is about the other person trying to change who you are and that ultimately Karma will work it's magic on them and they will in the end get their 'Just desserts', it is also about coming through the darkness and letting ago of all the misery.

Regaining your own life.


And finally, are the spiders really common on Australia? EEK! :-|

Hell yeah !!!!! I have a private spider collection !!! Keep's the big bad woof away !!!!! hehehehe

They are quite common but like most animals if you leave them alone,they will leave you alone. Sounds more than fair to me !!!

Thanks so much Tiff, and good luck with you're future on Sellaband.


Tiffany Gow @ Sellaband
Tiffany Gow @ Myspace

Fan Interview: Morgan Claire on Sirenia

Morgan Claire is a devoted fan of Symphonic metal band Sirenia, who hail from Norway. Here she speaks about her contact with the band, her favourite aspects of Sirenia, and Mortens girlfriends blonde moments...

When and how did you discover Sirenia?

Last year in August, I bought Beyond the Veil by Tristania (Morten of Sirenia's former band) and my best friend told me to download Sirenia if I liked it, so I downloaded Lethargica and really loved it...and I also thought Morten was a sexy beast so I got At Sixes and Sevens in December :-)

What do you find so Compelling about Sirenia?

Because is doesn't sound like every other gothic metal band, because Morten is sexy, because the singers aren't all opera chicks, because Morten is sexy, because they try different things without giving up who they are, and because Morten is sexy.

What Album is you're favourite? And Which songs do you enjoy most?

My favorite album is An Elixir for Existence and my favorite song is...I don't know. I have a lot but my favorites overall are Meridian, Manic Aeon, Voices Within, Star-crossed, Sundown and Glades of Summer!




As a close fan, do you have any personal contact with the band members? Have you had any contact in the past?

Well I have contact with Monika and Morten's girlfriend through Myspace since I often leave Monika image comments, she replies sometimes.
...Did I mention that Morten's gf had 30 of 39 blonde moments? Just thought I'd share...


Sirenia have been known for swapping vocalists throughout their 3 albums, which singer is you're personal favourite?

I like all of them. Fabienne is obviously the best vocal wise but she wasn't an official part of the band so I can't say her, Henriette was good live but not so much in studio even though she was sexy, Monika is probably my favorite since I think people judge her too much even though she's nice and talented.

Is there anything that Sirenia could do to make you dislike them?

I don't think there's much they could do- except get rid of Morten. Which WOULD NOT BE COOL.
And finally, what do you think makes a good fan, in general?

I think what makes a good fan is when you stick with the band 'til the very end and always appreciate their music, no matter what it becomes.

Morgan @ Myspace
Sirenia's Official Site

Review: After Forever - After Forever [Metal]

After Forever promised great things with their newest album. The self titled release was said to be a mixture of their earlier material, with their more melodic recent releases. Following the dissappointing Remagine, the band have a lot to prove, but does After Forever prove anything at all?

The album opens with the gothic anthem 'Discord'. Choirs in tow, along with the epic orchestra, the band really have gone back to their roots. Not truly, ofcourse, as ex-member Mark Jansen was highly responsible for the orchestral antics provided on debut album 'Prison Of Desire' and 'Decipher'. However, this fresher, heavier gothic sound really suits After Forever, and is a splendid opener, and should be a cracking live track also.

'Evoke' hints back to the more mainstream leanings of Remagine, with touches of Exordium-era After Forever to add a nice touch. Floor Jansen really shows she is the Queen of metal, with her impressive vocal skills. Elegantly yet forcefully, she leads the song along, particularly in the chorus 'Let It Flow. This Endless Beauty Will Evoke'. It's also worth noting how keyboardist Joost Van Den Broek has influenced the bands sound too, with his beautiful keyboard arrangements.

The third song is likely to be a live favourite. 'Transitory' is fast, simple and heavy, to the point of exhaustion. It's amazing beat, topped off by Floors strong vocals, entwining with the deep grunts of Sander Gommans. The vocal lines are insanely catchy, and the keyboard effects are vital in making this song as perfect as it is. Those expecting After Forever to be an airy female fronted band, that never passes funeral pace, will be surprised by this powerful track.

Lead single 'Energize Me' is a catchy, mainstream track, reminiscent of the recent After Forever releases. However, Energize Me manages to be interesting, and typically After Forever, aswell as radio-friendly and appealing. Highly commendable first single, especially the powerful vocals in the later choruses.

'Equally Destructive' may appear to be the heaviest track on After Forever, but the novelty soon wears off, and you are left with a generic rock song. However, the lyrical themes are very interesting, dealing with earthquakes and natural disasters. The song still manages to be interesting in places, particularly the last chorus when Floor does some beautiful multi-vocals.

Get ready for another fusion of old and new After Forever with track 6 'Withering Time'. The amazing orchestra and powerful heaviness bombard the listener on the first hearing. Around the 2 minute mark, the orchestras begin to sound like a devilish movie soundtrack, before throwing itself into a metallic feast, with grunts screams and fast guitar action. Definitly one of the heaviest After Forever songs. The chorus is also a well thought out catchy choir-fest, lead, ofcourse, by the seductive Floor Jansen.

'De-Energized' opens fiercly like a movie trailer. The epic opening leads into a battle of grunts and keyboard-lead metal. Sander Gommans is on top form with his fine-tuned growls, as Floor puts in her best performance to date, striking down a stunning note towards the end of the chorus. around 2.5 minutes, she goes almost acapella, backed only by a few effects, and pulls it off spectacularly. Her amazing skill as a vocalist really shines through on every track. The choirs, although not used as often as usual, still perform very well, and appear at the perfect times. They sound anxious and angry, with their sudden notes, a perfect supplement to a great song.

Power-ballads are often a tragic affair, with the vocalist yelping at the wrong times. However, sometimes they are done with such effort and precision, that the artist has to be applauded. As you can probably guess 'Cry With A Smile' despite the god-awful title is an epic, melancholic ballad that is the band at their best. Not much more can be said, other than the band are on fine form, each member playing their part perfectly, creating a wonderfully beautiful song.

'Being Everyone' from 2005's Remagine was a very strange foray into melodic pop metal. It may worry fans to hear that 'Envision' is not much different. But this track offers so much more, the interesting, yet catchy vocal lines, to the beautiful keyboard effects, 'Envision' actually turns out to be a highlight of the album. A single release would have been perfect, as this is a great example of After Forevers amazing songwriting skills.

'Who I Am' is a duet with rock goddess Doro. On paper it sounds perfect, two of the greatest vocalists working together. True, they both add a unique and flawless vocal performance but the song itself is dreadfully boring. Nothing outstanding in the slightest, on the musical front. Thank goodness it wasn't an instrumental... Perhaps the wekaest track on the album.

The album continues with the beautiful 'Dreamflight'. The album opens just as graceful as its title, with a short string segment, fading into the voice of Floor. Bas Maas makes his first, and only appearance on this track with his effortless voice. The song switches between strong, metallic passages and calmer, serene segments. Not the greatest epic ever written, but surely an interesting and commendable track.

The album concludes with the electronic influenced 'Empty Memories'. This is a perfect ending, especially with the calm choral passages, and the final 'No No No' that Floor spits venemously, ths is truly among After Forevers best work. The lyrics, also are nothing less than amazing.

Overall, After Forever prove all doubters wrong by releasing a strong and honest album. I must state, they do hint at the earlier material, not as often as i would like, but they kept their promise. There is only 2 weak tracks on the album, and even those have their charms, and the strong tracks more than make up for their downfalls. After Forever is an astounding album that deserves to be heard by all fans of the genre, aswell as people who like their music heavy.

Review: Epica - The Divine Conspiracy [Metal]

Releasing a debut album, as amazing as Epica's release The Phantom Agony can be a blessing and a curse. The album brought them a mass of attention and success, but also raised them on a pedestal, and the second album Consign To Oblivion, although still succesful, was panned for being too generic, and straying too far from the sound that garnered their success. With a return to form due, is The Divine Conspiracy the album the fans expect...

The Divine Conspiracy is the first concept album by Epica. It deals with the theory that, as a test, God created all kinds of different religions and released those upon humanity to see if they would be able to find the true nature of them, realizing that in all religions it is actually the same. The main character is introduced in the prologue and can be found in the last songs.

The Divine Conspiracy opens with, as always, a slow build up. This time we are treated to the best intro yet; Indigo. Sure, it lasts a little longer than it should, but the amazing orchestra is so breathtaking, this isn't just metal, this is film music. Hans Zimmer would have been proud, that's for sure.

`The Obsessive Devotion' starts with heavy guitar riffs and orchestra. Immediatly it's clear how much Simone has grown between Consign to Oblivion and The Divine Conspiracy when she hits the first lines with her angry voice. The drums done by Ariën van Weesenbeek are great and make you want to headbang. Already a proven great life song, this song rocks just as much on the cd. The spoken segment by Amanda Somerville is very passionate and emotional, followed by amazing choirs and Marks angry grunts.

Symphonic Metal at its heaviest, describes 'Menace Of Vanity'. A surprisingly bombastic arguement between the guttural growls of Mark and the collective force of the skill of each participant. A truly strong song that has little, or no faults at all. Each portion is thought up wonderfully, ensuring everything works together to create such an exceptional song. This song on the live scene will definitly blow anyone away.


The 4th song of The Divine Conspiracy is `Chasing The Dragon'. We used to wonder, wow what's Epica got to do with dragons? But it didn't turn out to be a fantasy tale, instead this song deals with problems of drugs. The song includes an acoustic guitar, though abit drowned by Simone's powerful voice. Slowly getting heavier by adding drums and heavy orchestra, we come to the beautiful chorus. With Marks angry grunts, frantic violins, and a male choir the song comes to a heavy climax, reminding of `Run For a Fall'.

`Never Enough' is the most mainstream track on the album, and therefore a perfect candidate for lead single. Simone features promimently, showcasing her superb skills once again. Also, for a single release, this track is conciderably heavy, even including grunts towards the chorus. The final note hit by Simons is a perfect conclusion to a great song. Definitly not the best track, but by far a strong and interesting single.

`Le'petach Chatat Rovetz' is an instrumental intro for `Death of a Dream', featuring oriental instruments, with the title focusing on the Jewish religion. The score seems to have been a source for this song.

The first of the series of 'mbrace That Smother's section is `Death Of A Dream'. Perhaps one of the heaviest tracks, opening with an array of angry choral sections, talented drums courtesy of Arjen and a major guitar shredding. The vocal lines, as with most tracks, are very interesting, with Simone, as always, on fine form. The song also features a guest, in Sander from After Forever, lending his powerful grunts, to entwine with the powerful Epica sound. The song is likely to be a success on the life front also, alike `Menace Of Vanity', it's almost impossible not to bop your head with this track.

`Living a Lie (The Embrace That Smothers - Part VIII)' is probably the slowest song out of the The Embrace That Smothers series (which run back to After Forever's first album; Prisoner of Desire). A humming choir opens the song leading to the first verse by Mark, in turns verses are taken by the choir. The very slow and rather boring chorus is sung by Simone. A Latin segment featuring some religion aspects is terribly spoken without emotion or conviction. The only original and interesting part of this song is the end: Hebrew chanting leading into `Fools Of Damnation'.

The final of the Embraces is the best. `Fools of Damnation' is such a detailed, individual Epica song. Featuring a few details that make it 'Epica' but also incorporating new vocal lines, and new instrumentals such as the indian influence. The song begins, reminiscent of `Seif Al Din' from the debut, with Simone performing beautiful chants leading into a slow, mournful chorus, where she shows she can be emotional aswell as effortlessly amazing. The true hilight of this song is the astonishingly magnifiscent chorus. The way Simone serenades with the word 'Fools' is superbly catchy and will have you singing along for a while.

`Beyond Belief' is a typical Epica song, which makes it slightly boring and predictable. The chorus however is very catchy with an amazing choral segment. Heavy guitar riffs make this a great live song, the solo on the other hand is overdone. Fragments of the news aren't very original and reminds of `Beneath' by After Forever. By fading heartbeats we slowly enter the afterlife..

`Safeguard To Paradise' begins with a slow, soothing piano intro, that never quite gets anywhere. It succeeds in being a boring ballad that, despite such serene lyrics, and a very nice melody, particularly the vocal lines of Simone, Safeguard To Paradise is nowhere near as beautiful as it had the potential to be.

Another typical Epica song, `Sancta Terra' opens with orchestra and slightly strange keyboard sounds. Simone sings most of the song, only joined by the choir in the amazing and catchy chorus. Once more you can hear the enormous progress in Simone's voice. This being a heavy and catchy song I can't wait to see this song live!

The finale of the album is this 'divine' epic, 'The Divine Conspiracy' is a 13-minute track that concludes the theme of the opus. The vocal theme is very smilar to that of `Consign To Oblivion', a large amount of duty rests on Mark Jansens screams/growls and the choirs. With Simone occasionally chipping in at the perfect time. The song is a grandeur track that needs a lot of concentration to understand its true beauty. Especially the intricate details such as the serene voilins and unique fusion of grunts and organs. My only complaint of this track is the fact that the orchestral segment seems to last a little too long. But to end such a strong album, this track is wonderful.

Overall, Epica have created another masterpiece, making up for their controversial last album, Consign To Oblivion. The Divine Conspiracy is a heavy, beautiful and epic album that delivers in every imaginable way.

Epica Official
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