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Angel is the new band/project of Helena Michaelsen (ex-Trail of Tears, Imperia) but don’t expect her to rehash the music that made her known the world over to fans of goth and metal. “A Woman’s Diary: Chapter I” is a journey through a variety of soundscapes and styles, never content to rest for more than a few minutes in one place. Helena’s stunning vocal work will undoubtedly appeal to fans of After Forever, Nightwish, and Epica but there is something different about Ms. Michaelson’s voice that draws you in. It’s a bit deeper than the aforementioned female vocalists but it’s ALWAYS powerful. It never sounds frail or weak; it is full of presence and command. It’s obvious that she new exactly what she wanted from this album. “Little Princess” is one of the most stunning moments on the album. It blends beautiful orchestration, gothic metal guitar and drum work, and a folk-ish acoustic guitar with some of the best vocal work she has ever done. The soft and gentle piano/acoustic guitar led love song “Glow in the Dark” is another gorgeous moment on the album. The song has a wonderful flow to it building from its ballad beginnings to its radio friendly crescendo. Helena even steps into a falsetto at one point. The dark acoustic “Little Girl” is another highlight, exhibiting a more gothic feel than many of the album’s songs. This is probably the most atmospheric song on the album. This is an amazing album from one of the most talented woman in music today. Helena really steps out of the box with Angel and the pay off is huge. Fans of her previous work should note that there is nothing really “heavy” about this album. It’s beautiful, intricate, and for the most part very quiet, placing the focus squarely on her, exactly where it should be. Key Tracks: Little Princess Reviewed by: Mark Fisher thegreatnothing.com |
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