Lykaion
Swallowed ByThe Sea

I happened to hear these young Lykaion in a Roman club some time ago and I was pleasantly surprised. At the time, Tiziana Palmieri was on vocals, and they had just released a stunning demo called "The Thing I've Left." I thus kept myself updated through their official Myspace, waiting for new productions. Given the professionalism of the guys and their incredible dedication to the band, I would have immediately expected a real album.... and instead.... here's a new demo!

Even though at first I was a bit disappointed by the release of only 3 new tracks, I immediately understood the reason for such a move: a lineup change, which paved the way for a new chapter filled with remarkable transformations, especially in style. The defection of Tiziana leaves room for the guttural and desperate throat of guitarist Alessandro, who pleasantly echoes Villa Lahiahla (Sentenced/Poisonblack). But beyond these influences, the band draws inspiration from the most intriguing metal groups of recent years: Nevermore, Katatonia, Anathema, Novembre, and 69Eyes. All naturally blended in a very personal way, so much so that the excellent fusion of melancholic melodies and classic thrash metal makes Lykaion's sound appealing both to fans and newcomers to the genre.

The demo in question, only (Alas) 3 tracks, is titled "Swallowed by the sea," and I must say that after several listens (because, to be honest, at first, I didn't digest the vocal change), I started to appreciate it much more than the previous one: the 4 guys seem much more cohesive than in the past and are much more convincing in navigating a more direct and less progressive style. The melancholy that previously characterized the old tracks now gives way to a will to get over it, a thirst for revenge that explodes in powerful and brilliant songs, played professionally, and also very catchy thanks to excellent (never predictable) choruses. It opens with "The end of time" where the influences of 69Eyes and (latest) Him violently emerge, but less sappy as they are always tinged with strong elements of classic and thrashy Metal, characterized by an unmistakable catchy chorus that you find yourself humming during the day. It continues with "These Words", and this time (already a primary feature of the old demo) the time changes and the alternation between powerful moments and slow, melancholic ones take center stage. Here a note of merit goes to the rhythm section of Valerio on bass and Andrea on drums, truly impeccable. Closing (so soon???) with "The last song", perhaps the best, encapsulating the essence of the band: melody, impact, excellent chorus, professional arrangement.

These guys lack nothing to be considered by a serious label in the industry; they have the talent to compete at good levels (and they can still grow), they are full of ideas and offer a clean, powerful, and also sophisticated sound. I sincerely hope that they (like other very talented Italian groups) receive the rightful tribute despite the unfair ostracism towards our domestic metal music.

Tracklist:

The end of time, These words, The last song

LineUp:

Alessandro Sforza (Vocals-guitar) Fabio Valentini (Guitar) Andrea Alberati (Drums) Valerio Miseferi (Bass)