Elyria: Elyria

Elyria is a new Singen, Germany-based female fronted metal band that have recently released their five track debut EP. The band started in 2012, with Oliver Weislogel, on guitars; Patricia Cooney, on lead vocals; Sascha Kaisler, on drums; and Stefan Mankiewitz, on bass.

Since the female lead singer is one of the most important parts of any band in this genre let me quickly dispel any worries early. Patricia Cooney's vocals are definitely "ready for prime time". She has a very soprano-operatic style that will leave your ears ringing with either pleasure or grief, depending on how much you enjoy the high notes.

The opener, "Salome" is a perfect example of Cooney's highest of highs. The power bass and drums drive the bass decibels as far down as Cooney's voice climbs to the peak. It makes for some nice thunder and lightning, especially when Weislogel's lead guitar cuts through the divergent sound cloud formations.

Cooney's lead and backing vocals on "The Vigil" provide full surround sound of excellent, high pitched female vocals at full force. Weislogel's lead guitar solos thankfully cut through to give the sound a variance as Mankiewitz's deep bass and Kaisler's power drums rock the walls.

"Faceless" features Cooney's best vocals. She calms down the high pitched delivery to provide thoughtful lyrics and a sweet vocal that can be better appreciated. Kaisler's drums set good rhythm and the guitar duo of Weislogel and Mankiewitz grind and rip the soundscape well. This track reminds me at times of some of Stream of Passion's power and fury. If they stick with this vocal delivery they can create some great epics in the future.

"Colors of Silence" is a galloping, proggy piece of music at the opening which features Cooney's calm and peaceful vocals. Only the melody drifts off into a melancholy phase, taking the edge off the powerful rhythms they created at the opening.

"Only Words" opens with brilliant keys and choir like vocal support. This is the kind of music I hope the rest of the album will be filled with, if a full album is in the cards for the future. This and of course "Faceless". Cooney's vocals are beautiful and sweet and provide the perfect balance between the ear boxing drums and deep bass permeating the soundscape. Weislogel's lead guitar is full of smart riffs and chords.

This was a great introduction to the band. Great expectations indeed. Cooney's voice is stellar. It needs to be tempered and they need to write a deep adventurous story to help bring out her emotions and passions more, but they are very close. I hope they will release a full prog concept album. I for one would be very interested in reviewing it.

Track Listing:

1. Salome
2. The Vigil
3. Faceless
4. Colors of Silence
5. Only Words

Added: July 21st 2013
Reviewer: Mark Johnson
Score:
Related Link: www.elyria.eu
Hits: 2342
Language: english

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