The female-fronted metal scene is one that often sees many bands wanting to capitalize on any modicum of momentum it gains, yet so few get the recognition that they seek. Still, this does not deter many bands from trying, and much like pro wrestling these days it’s all about looks, or so it seems (that’s a story for another day).  Enter Italy’s Evenoire, which is a relatively new band that plays a combination of folk and Gothic metal.  If you think that combination sounds odd, wait until you hear it in practice on their debut album Vitriol.

Formed in 2006, Evenoire is fronted by Lisy Stefanoni, whose voice easily stands out on an album full of potential. The instrumental title track establishes an atmosphere that remains consistent throughout the album. The first song with vocals, “Days of the Blackbird”, offers what would become a theme for Evenoire: vocals that are deceptively powerful in its emotion against a backdrop of a variety of styles: Gothic, symphonic, and folk metal. While Evenoire hasn’t quite perfected the use of all three styles, they have the talent and know-how to make it happen, as evidenced on songs such as “Girl by the Lake” and “Misleading Paradise.” The folk elements aren’t too strong, but when given a chance to shine, as on “Minstrel of Dolomites,” Stefanoni’s vocals work well with the style. Her vocals are the central focus of the band’s sound and, seemingly, the vocals are versatile enough to make the combination of styles work. While unspectacular, the sound is solid enough to compliment the vocals and there is potential for it to be more. Most of the songs on the album are given the time to develop, with two-thirds of the songs on Vitriol being over the five-minute mark, allowing for the band to find its identity without being rushed into finding one.

The music style that Evenoire utilizes should, by all rights, not work as well as it does on Vitriol.  However, the one aspect that truly stands out is the vocals, which makes everything else better, and that’s only the beginning of the band’s potential.  Evenoire is a band to keep an eye and ear on and Vitriol is an album worth checking out if you love female vocals done right.

TRACK LISTING

*By clicking "Submit" you agree to the following Terms of Use. You agree not to post any material that is obscene, slanderous, or threatening, or that may violate any law of your country of origin or the United States or of international law. Should you wish to restrict viewing of your email address by third parties, you must select "Hide My Email." You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Metal Psalter from any claims, actions, suits, damages, or other costs arising out of any breach of these Terms of Use.

*Comments:

1.  Vitriol
2.  Days of the Blackbird
3.  Misleading Paradise
4.  Forever Gone
5.  The Prayer
6.  Girl by the Lake
7.  Minstrel of Dolomites
8.  Alchimia
9.  Wise King

Total playing time:  46:02

Release Date: March 26, 2012
Label: Scarlet Records

Evenoire - Vitriol

Reviewer: Peter

March 29, 2012