1. Komödia (1997)

Country: Austria

Komödia (1997, Hall of Sermon)

Style: Female-led doomish metal (on the lighter side of doom).

Since this release comes on Lacrimosa's Hall of Sermon label, the inevitable comparison would be to the Swiss outfit. However, you would get a better picture if you think of a cross between The Gathering (mostly slow doom arrangements) and Lacuna Coil (in the vocal department). This is the first full-length album the band has produced and they show a lot of promise. The concept CD based loosely around Dante's Divine Comedy boasts two female singers who, unlike Odes of Ecstasy, use a similar style and generally sing in the same register, and unlike Dismal Euphony, sound pretty melodic at all times. Some may consider the ABBA-like approach a bit surprising, but it works. Although there may be genuine disagreement whether the music qualifies as metal at all, there is little doubt in my mind that it does (I have always believed that the natural elasticity of metal to be its strongest feature.)

A uniquely happy feeling pervades the album and although it is unusual for the style in general (and definitely has little to do with the subject matter), it does not detract one iota from the enjoyment of the music. See "Komödia" parts I and III for especially representative samples. In some respects (as the frequent comparisons suggest) the problem is the amalgamation of various influences, which the band does without finding its own voice. However, this is only the first album, and with more yet to come, it is too early to dismiss them as immitators. Given that both singers use the same technique, it is not clear that they need both. Unless they diversify, it is an overkill. Excellent booklet, the cover picture specifically, and Sandra is one good-looking singer.

Verdict: very good, I will be on the lookout for this band.