« Talio »
Self-Released/Independent
2014
Forming in 2009, the Ukrainian unit, SCARLET EMBRACE, has recently released their debut album, « Talio » and upon first listen one would be remiss to dismiss the band for being cliché or singularly predictable. Yes, they have their feet firmly planted in the «typical» melo-Death domain, but offer more than the average group of this genre, especially for a debut. Intro, « Talio » really sets the mood for romantic, grandeur and charming melancholy with violin and lullaby-esque keyboards before « Earth’s Sigh” bombards with Swedish style guitar riffing and subtle violin touches. Deep death growls abound as well making it impossible for one not to acquaint SCARLET EMBRACE with many other bands in the same vein. However, « Blood-Tied Rose » sets the band apart in its slow, morose pedigree, punctuated by beautiful piano. Fans of PETALLOM or ESTATIC FEAR would not be remiss to give the Ukrainians a listen.
Professional sounding and even a little over-produced gives « The Obscure Hermetics » a rich, haunting atmosphere aided by more background atmospherics, but including traditional Heavy Metal vocals, courtesy of bassist, Kirill Grinevich. « King of Wonders » meanders in Middle Eastern waters while « Three Coasts » dramatically embellishes the «medieval» aspects SUIDAKRA are known for, helped notably by singer, Alevtina Berger. Ultimately, « Talio » is a fine debut for SCARLET EMBRACE and yet while the band wade through Melodic Death Metal clichés somewhat, the songs are strong examples of a band trying to find their place in an otherwise crowded genre. What redeem the album are the performances that clearly indicate musicians who’ve done their homework and who aren’t afraid of taking chances. Perhaps on future releases, the five-piece can capitalize on experimentation and not rely on convention?
Standout Tracks: Blood-Tied Rose, King of Wonders, Three Coasts
7/10
Chris
