Shadow Of Soul
Whisper From A Shadow

INTRODUCTION:
The "Shadow Of Soul" is a band from the province of Vibo Valentia, born in 1998 from the fusion of other small groups in the area.
This is their first real album, released after two to three-track demos "Whisper" and "Mystic," containing eight tracks with a total duration of 50 minutes. I had the opportunity to discover them thanks to a live show organized at the Irish Pub in my town, and I was immediately fascinated. The five members of the band, Francesco Valente - Vocals, Antonio Tavella - Guitars, Giuseppe Tatangelo - Bass, Andrea Iorfino – Drums, and Gabriele Gigliucci – Keyboards, made the evening, organized in December 2002 to present this very album, pleasant and engaging.
So, I decided to purchase their CD, and I never regretted it.

The album rides on very dark sounds, accompanied by gothic/power metal melodies.
The rhythms are very heavy, and the keyboard creates sad and relentless harmonies. The voice leads to a metal leaning towards power, not at all similar to that stupid and childish one that now crowds the current music scene.
The performances by Tony Tavella (now a former member), who creates commendable guitar solos and virtuosities, and "Tato," an excellent bassist ex-Glaciar Fear (another great Calabrian metal band), are outstanding. These last two elements are accomplices in reproducing dark yet heavy and speed riffs.
Some arrangements are very original, but others, especially those of the first tracks, do not impress much.
The proposed solutions are also good, intelligent, and never predictable.
The most captivating and beautiful songs are the opening track "Whisper," "River of Hell" with its cross melodies, the powerful "Hordes Of Dying," and "Prince of Darkness," dedicated by Tavella to the late Chuck Schuldiner.

Unfortunately, the inexperience and just sufficient production, as often happens with emerging bands and a scarce budget, are flaws of the record, which, however, fully earns its merits. With all the best wishes in this case, I hope to see the Shadow of Soul engaged in new works, hoping that greater experience will improve the good performances presented so far.
If by any chance you find this album in your record store or any other point of sale, do not hesitate to purchase it: the price is affordable, and the product is good.