The Dogma
Black Roses

The Dogma
Black Roses
Drakkar, 2006
Heavy

Black Roses is a 2006 debut album, dizzying for its overall level, so out of the ordinary. The cover, which takes inspiration from the "Sin City" comics style, is miles away from the popular fantasy ones in the power-heavy metal field (the group's style) and makes a notable impact.

Anconetani, the The Dogma, with only one demo ("Symphony Of Love And Hate") behind them, caught the attention of Drakkar Records who immediately signed them. Their music is direct and fascinating: melodic, powerful, with gothic shades and not too stereotyped, it stands out from most power bands that draw inspiration only from the past. Added to this is the excellent powerful and passionate voice of Daniele Santori and the technical prowess of the entire band. Due to an injury to the drummer (Marco Bianchella) during the early recording phases, the entire album was recorded with Mike Terrana on drums.

Gothic tinges, well stressed by the heavy keyboard work of Stefano Smeriglio, characterize the melodic lines of paced tracks like "Black Roses", "...And Julie No More" and "Temptation" which unfold with class in the choruses designed to highlight the notable vocal range of the singer. The 10-member choir is undoubtedly a fundamental element of the album and The Dogma isn't stingy with its presence, especially during tempo changes, to break the linearity of the tracks; this is exactly what happens in the heavy metal of "Wicked Angels" and "Devil's Bride". "Waiting For The Rain" is instead a piece enriched by electronics and endowed with a very captivating rhythm that makes it sound very radio-friendly to me. "Sands Of Time" and "Ghost Of War" don't add anything to what has already been briefly described, although they cannot be defined as bad.

Let me dwell on the songs that struck me the most. Coincidentally, they are two tracks at opposite ends: a slow one ("Maryann") and a powerful blast ("Queen Of The Damned").
A melancholic arpeggio marks the time for the insertion of Daniele's wonderful interpretation. As the seconds pass, the range and passion of his singing increase, culminating in an excruciating chorus where he begs Maryann not to go away. A sublime acoustic ballad, sparse, simple, and heartfelt that I am sure would be a hit if broadcast on radio or television.
"Queen Of The Damned" is a track that leaves an indelible mark. The rhythm section with Terrana being outstanding, is sensational and will make your walls shake if you turn the volume up properly. In the verses, Daniele flaunts an almost shrill voice in symbiosis with the tight riffing and the crucial electronic insertion, while the chorus appears broader and more melodic. In the break, Binetti and Smeriglio have fun offering over 2 minutes of technical, fast solos, with exhilarating restarts made to excite the audience in a live performance. A long track, masterfully oiled in the gears, that flows with the expertise of a seasoned band.

Black Roses has brought to light a talented formation that has a bright future ahead. A debut in which our guys have demonstrated technique in every instrument and the ability to create a fascinating sound that doesn't blatantly recall other groups. Melodic, dark, and in some cases even radio-friendly, The Dogma's debut might appeal not only to those who appreciate metal and should be promoted without hesitation. Within their genre, they are one of the best young talents around, and it's a scandal that they remain unknown to most, especially in their own country.