Syrens Call are a female-fronted metal band from France, who got their third full length out in late 2010. 'Raging Waters', even though it's all very water-themed from the band's name to the album's title, is not another 'Oceanborn' (1998). It is something else... Well, for a big part anyways.

'Hang on to Life' is a song, that is pure pop or disco music morphed into real instruments. There is some flashy guitar soloing, double kick drumming and metal riffage going on, though. Dark and luscious voice of Soraya Hostens is very characteristic, giving the band some real identity. Plus, she hasn't any problems with accent. The album ventures to power metal territories, prog spheres, 80's pop fields, and symphonic realms during its one hour plus duration. There is time and place for everything, even though at times it feels like the songs are a tad too long, but at least they are varying and quite demanding. 'Ashes of Destiny's beginning is pure Nightwish worship, but the song has varying elements that drag it away from too likely things. The music is never very heavy, except themewise, but it still fluctuates between more positive vibes and darker feelings. The album is filled with melodies, so it is quite sugary for sure.

Productionwise this is clean, but lacks of power. The production certainly makes the album even lighter than it really is. However, the emotional bits are now well audible in the mix, and that aspect is very important for the band anyways. There's nothing I can say about lyrics or cover artwork, because I'm reviewing a promo copy...

Without any doubt, Nightwish fans will praise this album, even though Syrens Call are conveniently different when compared to the Finnish legends of melodic metal. I could also name Portuguese band Oratory, with which Syrens Call have something in common. If you want female vocals, huge amounts of melodiousness and a lot to listen to, why not give 'Raging Waters' a chance?

Rating: 7+ (out of 10) ratings explained

Reviewed by Lane
02/08/2011 13:11