by Christophe Pauly
– Sr. Photojournalist —
Escape From Shadow Island is the first EP from the band Shadowrise. Based in Eindhoven (Netherlands), this five-piece band creates music by mixing different genres, such as Symphonic, Power Metal and Death Metal.
Shadowrise features female singer Laura Guldemond. While she is new to the band, she’s not a stranger to this style of music. The brilliant singer has been involved in different projects, including Ayreon and The Theater Equation. Other band members include Roman Potasse (vocals, rhythm guitar), Daniel Boomsma (lead guitar), Yordi Florax (bass) and Joris Sevat (drums).
As we take a listen to those four songs, it’s evident that the band mastered this genre of music and has delivered four incredible songs.
There’s a notable contrast between the growling of Potasse and the beautiful vocals delivered by Guldemond. The guitar parts also are very melodic and incredible. It’s evident that all of this is the result of an intensive work. The band has a very powerful sound that is complemented by the dramatic arrangements, taking the music to another level. There are many rhythmic variations between drums and guitars, offering more interesting and unexpected directions. Boomsma’s solos are incredible and have many notable phrases that bring more dynamics to the songs.
The mixing and the production of this EP was done at Tomsterproject Studios in the Netherlands, which is known for its solid reputation for delivering quality releases.
Without comparing Shadowrise to other Metal bands, the groups maturity is evident with its ability to combine very technical parts with melody. Add the incredible performances of Guldemond, and you have a formidable new band. The band’s sound will appeal to what’s most appreciated in Metal nowadays.
Escape From Shadow Island is a very good record. While being the group’s debut release, the EP doesn’t sound like a first effort. Shadowrise comprises very talented and experienced musicians, and the music just sounds better because of that.
The fans of extreme music and Melodic Metal certainly will find what they’re searching for in Shadowrise’s music.
My advice: Go and listen to this one; it’s certainly worth it.
Genre: Symphonic Power Metal
Band:
Laura Guldemond (vocals)
Roman Potasse (vocals, rhythm guitar),
Daniel Boomsma (lead guitar)
Yordi Florax (bass)
Joris Sevat (drums)
Track Listing:
1. Rise
2. Django
3. Monsters
4. Escape from Shadow Island
Label: Independent
Web: http://shadowrise.bigcartel.com/
Hardrock Haven rating: 8/10
