If there would be such a thing as "light"
metal, then Edenbridge would be it. But hang on! Don't stop reading. Yes,
it's true that this band has close to zero heaviness and no aggression,
but I can't help but loving this album.
The main reason for the album's success is the voice
of Sabine Edelsbacher, who has the best voice I think I've ever heard
from a woman in metal. Well, actually she doesn't exactly have the most
suitable voice for metal, but she totally makes the approach of this band
work. Anyone else, and this review would read something like "totally
lame, flaccid power metal. Avoid." Instead, it's my dark horse pick
of the issue. The bittersweet vocal melodies are so memorable and engaging,
you'll want to hear this album over and over. It certainly helps that
there is a very talented group of musicians backing her up who are able
to compliment her melodies with well-placed and tasteful solos and solid
rhythms.
Musically, Arcana often sounds like the equivalent
of what a power metal song would sound like if it were composed for a
Japanese Anime soundtrack, while at other times it sounds like what would
happen if Elton John became interested in metal. Then throw in a few parts
that sound Stratovarius inspired, along with a couple songs that have
a Middle-Eastern flavor to them, and you've got a good idea of what to
expect. I'm totally into this album. Wussy metal forever.
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