Enid Seelenspiegel
code666 Code009 2002
By Russell Garwood
German band Enid were formed in 1997, releasing a demo, 2 albums over CEP Records and an MLP through Ketzer before signing to code666 in 2001. The new line-up consists of rhythm guitarist Albion, lead guitarists Michael and Thalos, Martin Weise on keyboards/vocals and session drummer Moritz Neuner (of Dornenreich and Abigor fame). Seelenspiegel, their latest album, was recorded at Austrias Mirror Studio. The music, described as metallic fantasy art, is in fact epic metal with occasional gothic touches, doom atmosphere, black metal and Classical influences. As always with code666 the CD is beautifully presented; this time in a six-panel digipack with booklet, matching the borderless, dreamy music.
Opener Soul Glass is an acoustic effort with complex vocal layering and choirs displaying Martins enjoyable vox, which, while tuneful, can lack power. Track two, Land Of The Lost steps up the pace - while some quieter sections remain, the majority is decidedly metal, again with vocal layering (growled and sung). Next comes Nexus a catchy effort with multiple time changes and varied instrumentation, followed by one of the blackest songs on the album, Patiences Ring. Interlude is just that, consisting of Weises vocals and flute, juxtaposed by the heavier, more diverse The Forbidden Site. Standout And Soon Will Fall The Days displays impressive drums and guitar work, while penultimate track Seelenfrieden is short and extreme. Helios Neidergang finishes the album with impressive orchestration and obvious Classical influences.
Enid are an intriguing band; their goals are largely achieved - the music, while not immediate, is compelling and accomplished. My only reservation is that the vocals dont always do the emotional music justice, and sometimes the emotion itself feels contrived. This detracts little from the overall appeal of the album, however, and Seelenspiegel shows great potential. With a little development Enid will be a formidable force this is a must for any fans of epic, melodic and diverse metal.
code666 Code009 2002
By Russell Garwood
German band Enid were formed in 1997, releasing a demo, 2 albums over CEP Records and an MLP through Ketzer before signing to code666 in 2001. The new line-up consists of rhythm guitarist Albion, lead guitarists Michael and Thalos, Martin Weise on keyboards/vocals and session drummer Moritz Neuner (of Dornenreich and Abigor fame). Seelenspiegel, their latest album, was recorded at Austrias Mirror Studio. The music, described as metallic fantasy art, is in fact epic metal with occasional gothic touches, doom atmosphere, black metal and Classical influences. As always with code666 the CD is beautifully presented; this time in a six-panel digipack with booklet, matching the borderless, dreamy music.
Opener Soul Glass is an acoustic effort with complex vocal layering and choirs displaying Martins enjoyable vox, which, while tuneful, can lack power. Track two, Land Of The Lost steps up the pace - while some quieter sections remain, the majority is decidedly metal, again with vocal layering (growled and sung). Next comes Nexus a catchy effort with multiple time changes and varied instrumentation, followed by one of the blackest songs on the album, Patiences Ring. Interlude is just that, consisting of Weises vocals and flute, juxtaposed by the heavier, more diverse The Forbidden Site. Standout And Soon Will Fall The Days displays impressive drums and guitar work, while penultimate track Seelenfrieden is short and extreme. Helios Neidergang finishes the album with impressive orchestration and obvious Classical influences.
Enid are an intriguing band; their goals are largely achieved - the music, while not immediate, is compelling and accomplished. My only reservation is that the vocals dont always do the emotional music justice, and sometimes the emotion itself feels contrived. This detracts little from the overall appeal of the album, however, and Seelenspiegel shows great potential. With a little development Enid will be a formidable force this is a must for any fans of epic, melodic and diverse metal.
