Tag Archives: Xandria

Xandria – India (2005) – Review

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When I read the late Twitter message from the German band Xandria a few days ago that they are now – in 2015 – heading out to India for the first time. That struck me as somewhat ironic. And this of course in light of their 2005 record and 3rd studio album India that has been on the market for … almost 10 years now. 

After their very successful 2nd album Ravenheart, it must have been decidedly difficult to create a fitting follow-on record to an already successful former offering. And – in addition – just about a short … [...] Click to raid more!

Illuminata – A World So Cold (2011) – Review

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I have no idea where all these mediocre reviews come from that I tortured myself reading. And why the fuck I did this to myself is beyond me. The 2011 album A World So Cold from the Austrian band Illuminata is simply refreshing. Perhaps apart from the bodged intro that just wants to make you scream and kick the walls, that is.

Pure goth sloth with loads of Symphonic Metal, best described as Within Temptation with an edge, mixed with some Xandria style elements. Add a hint of Nightwish to this medley and it will put a smile on your face. … [...] Click to raid more!

Diabulus in Musica – Argia (2014) – Review

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Whoa! Now some of the fans are going to be pissed off. So many very good reviews heaping praise on this record. And I just cannot get too warm with it.

We talk about Argia, the 3rd full-length album of Diabulus in Musica. Oh yeah, ’tis the one – the much awaited and hyped about. Once again, Argia is very complex fare, like their last one The Wanderer. And beautifully interpreted by Zuberoa Aznàrez, the delighting female front of this very talented band in tandem with Gorka Elso and the rest of the band.

Both founded the band way back in … [...] Click to raid more!

Xandria – Ravenheart (2004) – Review

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The first time I came across Xandria was via their second album Ravenheart. Not sure what really got my interest going, to be honest. It probably was the unique style that this band displayed at that time.

A German outfit, rocking in a somewhat delirious and somewhat poppy brand of Gothic and Melodic Metal. And – on top – these boys and girls provided a much-needed counterweight to other upcoming bands like Within Temptation back then.

Their style – or more their interesting mix of styles – is somewhat addictive and has this tendency to grow on you. For sure, they were not groundbreakers … [...] Click to raid more!