KINGFISHER SKY
"Hallway of Dreams" (The
Laser's Edge; 2008)
Reviewed by Christopher J. Kelter
Hailing from the Netherlands, the new act Kingfisher Sky is the project of
former Within Temptation drummer Ivar de Graaf. Lead singer and classically trained
vocalist Judith Rijnveld is also a featured performer as she was the first person to join de Graaf in Kingfisher Sky. It’s for
a good reason that de Graaf is getting the press she does as her vocal style comprises a wide range suited for rock, metal, and progressive
styles.
Kingfisher Sky is essentially progressive rock with substantial elements of heavy metal and classical influences. But the band’s style is
dissimilar enough from the symphonic metal associated with the drummer’s former band,
Within Temptation. Occasionally, the material comes across as too similar to late
'90s The Gathering, but that might not be a bad thing.
Kingfisher Sky’s style is generally easy on the ears, but with enough
dynamics and pizzazz to keep the metal head in all of us engaged to a significant degree.
Anyone that disfavors “operatic” singers won’t find much to like here, either.
“Hallway of Dreams” was produced by Jochem Jacobs and Bouke Visser.
Kingfisher Sky: Judith Rijnveld on vocals, Daan Janzing on guitars, Edo van der Kolk on guitars, Eric Hoogendoorn on bass, George van Olffen on
keyboards, and Ivar de Graaf on drums.
For more information visit http://www.kingfishersky.com.
Rating Guide:
A classic. This record will kick your ass.
Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.
So-so. You've heard better.
Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.
Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.
Copyright © 2008 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights
reserved.
Revised: 18 Nov 2024 12:46:17 -0500.
