RavenWord: Transcendence

In the over-populated world of symphonic metal, the music’s carrying capacity may have already been reached, so to be noticed one must figure out a way to stand out from the crowd. RavenWord may be such a band. The Milan, Italy band formed in 2007 and after a self titled demo (never was properly released) they decided to call it quits. In 2016 they wanted to give it another go and six years later released their debut album titled Transcendence, a fine listen in the tradition of symphonic metal. For me, it is the arrangements, melodies and vocals that really stand out. Chiara Tricarico has the voice of an angel and her vocals are never strained, really, there doesn’t seem to be a note she cannot reach. The melodies and catchiness are spread all over the disc, these tunes just seem to settle in and make themselves at home.

Right out of the gate the band does what they do best, offering a superb melody and tasteful orchestrations in the album opening “Blue Roses�. Piano, strings and an excellent synth solo highlight “Life Is In Your Hands� where the heaviness transitions to mellower moments of introspection in a seamless and free flowing manner, the musicianship is never in doubt. Fiery neoclassical guitar and another fine keyboard solo make “No More� another notable track and in “Lullaby Of The Last Petal�, the vocals, piano and strings are really quite exquisite. My favourite is the “The Queen Of Darkness�, maybe the biggest earworm on the disc with its elegant choirs, intoxicating lead vocals, and slightly dark edge. The heavy and light parts are arranged in near perfect fashion creating a smooth listening experience.

Anyone into symphonic metal should be paying close attention to this Italian band as they have made a wonderful debut, easily worthy of its four star rating. Recommended.

Track Listing:
1. Blue Roses
2. Life Is In Your Hands
3. No More
4. Lullaby Of The Last Petal
5. Purity
6. Rain Of Stars
7. The Queen Of Darkness
8. What I Need
9. The Swansong
10. Dylan
11. Crimson Lake
12. The Distance
13. Bleeding Moon

Added: March 21st 2021
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Band on Facebook
Hits: 640
Language: english

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