Atlanta's Scarlett XIII has been around for a while and have released a number of singles leading up to this their full-length debut, 'Sonata Tenebrae'. The brainchild of singer/lyricist George Emans he joined forces with guitarist extraordinaire, Joe Carpenter, ex-Nihilist, Mezzanine and Volume IV, almost three years ago and together they set their minds on creating this wonderful album full of vampire-inspired goth, darkwave and metal. Czech-exile George penned the lyrics while Joe composed and performed the guitars and bass guitar as well as programming the drums. Session man Felix Commerell handled all the keyboards.
They open with 'Into The Night', a captivating rocker with big symphonic undertones and brilliant guitar playing as well as great lyrical hooks. And these ingredients makes the song reel you in, and then some. 'Disappointment's Room' follows and drops a notch in tempo but man those opening riffs, they blow you away. As the song gradually picks up George mesmerize the listener all while the music gets a wonderful grip. 'Eternal Love' brings cinematic romanticism to life perfectly. Strong melody and harmonies intertwines to help enhance this along with great six-string brilliance. 'Fallen Angels' is hooks galore as it pulls you in and keeps it's hold. About three minutes in Scarlett XIII throw off the shackles and rocks hard only to switch back bringing the song to a close.
I absolutely love 'Secrets'. This song has it all: great lyrics, great musicianship and it burrows deep into my mind and soul. Listen to the wonderful chorus. 'Dying Inside' is another favourite on the album. Excellent movement between tempos and again the chorus grabs a hold mercilessly. Scarlett XIII close out 'Sonata Tenebrae' with a killer live version of Real Life's 'Send Me An Angel'. The band hasn't changed the song much since the original version fits Scarlett XIII perfectly. They simply play it out unshackled and unabashed and make it their own.
Blending genres like Scarlett XIII does is a tricky proposition with the usual outcome being all over the board. That is not the case with this band however. On the contrary, they reign it all in where everything plays an equally important part and that's what makes 'Sonata Tenebrae' so good. Not only do they write and play great music, they know how to make what they do cohesive, on point and damned great!
-Swedebeast
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