ORATORY
"Last Prophecy" (Recital Records; 1998)
Reviewed by Christopher J. Kelter
Oratory, hailing from Portugal, is a young sextet that have introduced themselves to the world with "Last Prophecy." The three songs that comprise the mini-CD of "Last Prophecy" fit in very nicely with the European gothic metal movement with some neo-classical and progressive elements and influences rounding out the bands very full sound.
Oratory has created these tracks from the basic elements of progressive metal with a high degree of technicality that does not forget melody as the important construct of the musical journey. The harmonic interplay of the guitar and keyboards is strong without being overwhelming.
Having two vocalists (one male, one female) adds to the depth of the storytelling on "Last Prophecy." It is nice to hear two vocalists without either resorting to the guttural sounds so often employed by bands with a dual vocal attack.
"Last Prophecy" was produced by Luis Barros. Overall, the production is average and there isn't anything so bad as to detract from the quality of the sound of the disc.
"Last Prophecy" is a very good debut; I certainly wouldn't mind hearing more from Oratory in the future.
Oratory is Miguel Gomez on guitars, Ana Lara on vocals, Rui Santos on bass, Joao Rodriguez on drums, and Marco Alvez on vocals, and Antonio Silva on keyboards.
For more information visit www.oratory-band.net.
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 © 2000 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights
reserved.
Revised:
05 Aug 2024 11:18:32 -0400.