Teodasia: Stay Maxi Single

Teodasia is a symphonic metal band from Venice, Italy, that began in 2006. The band is made up of composer and drummer Francesco Gozzo; Priscilla Fiazza on vocals; Fabio Compagno, on guitars; Michele Munari, on keyboards, and Nicola Falsone, on bass.

Teodasia's first full album, 'Upwards', has been receiving rave reviews globally over the last two years. Now they have decided to release a maxi – single EP, while they write their next album. They did so mainly out of their love and adoration for German DJ/production team Sash!'s number two charting Italian single 'Stay', featuring La Trec. It was originally released in September of 1997.

Cover songs are difficult to judge. Some…like Stevie Ray Vaughan's version of Jimi Hendrix's 'Voodoo Chile", and likewise Hendrix's cover of Bob Dylan's 'All Along the Watchtower', go over well. In fact I'd argue the last two are better than the originals. However, the music field is littered with others that did not go so well. I will leave out the names to protect the 'innocent'. But I'm sure a few can immediately come to mind.

Now…back to Teodasia. Having never heard the original track, I was able to take a fresh listen to the song objectively. But I also went back and listened to Sash!'s version as well. By the way…both bands have created accompanying videos on You Tube that must be seen.

I am happy to say that Teodasia's version of the song is much tighter and more powerful than the original. The keyboards just locked me in immediately. Some of the best I've heard this year. The drumming is much more intense and powerful. And, I saved the best for last…Priscilla's vox rules!

I don't know how she continues to bring out more unique ways of expressing her vocal talents on each of the band's albums. Here she is positively electrifying when she opens the song with her desperate whispers. The accent that added flair to 'Upwards' is gone. Which is a good and bad thing at the same time. If you liked the accent, it will be back later in some of the other tracks on this EP. Fiazza captures your attention and drives this song with a will, determined to show you how important it is for you to stay. Excellent!

'My Infinity' is an perfectly orchestrated instrumental full of sweeping strings, piano and keys that sound more like a piece from a movie soundtrack. (Maybe…one day).

'Windy Night' is an older song which Priscilla and the band wanted to provide a new sound. Since I haven't heard the original I cannot compare, but suffice it to say that Priscilla's vocals skyrocket again to lofty heights. The keys and strings that surround that vocal climb are monumental. Soft drums sooth the ears throughout the dramatic melody of this song.

'Hollow Earth', (Radio Edit), is a return to the glory of 'Upwards'. There seems to be more symphonic support, and that wonderful accent is back in Priscilla's voice.

Priscilla Fiazza needs to be considered amongst some of the top symphonic metal voices in the genre. She has a unique sound which lifts and sooths spirits without burning out your ears. I place her right up there on my favorite's list with Sabine Edelsbacher, Marcela Bovio, and Manuella Kraller. However, Francesco Gozzo's composing, keys, and drumming are also exceptional reasons to buy this EP/Maxi Single.

While you are waiting, and as I am, anticipating their next album, this is a great appetizer.

Track Listing:

1. Stay (2013)
2. My Infinity
3. Windy Night
4. Hollow Earth, (Radio Edit)

Added: May 14th 2013
Reviewer: Mark Johnson
Score:
Related Link: www.teodasia.com
Hits: 2363
Language: english

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