Another first - Edenbridge (whose name alone I love) is the first band I've heard from Austria (which, at the time of writing, is also at the top of my 'countries I want to visit which I haven't yet' list). Led by guitarist/keyboardist/songwriter Lanvall, they're steeped in a symphonic and progressive sound that has a grace and dignity that almost transcends the label of 'metal' itself. This is made all the more complete by vocalist Sabine Edelsbacher. She's not as powerfully operatic as someone like Tarja Turunen or After Forever's Floor Jansen; rather, she has a pure, pretty voice that is engaging throughout this debut. The music isn't easy to get into at first, but there's plenty of good stuff here, like the extensive title track, and the beautiful, almost ABBA-esque ballad "Forever Shine On". I've eventually found myself liking this record, despite the occasional over-indulgence; it is an impressive commencement to the band's career.
****
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