WITHOUT FACE
"Deep
Inside" (Dark Symphonies)
Reviewed by Christopher J. Kelter
Without Face is a Hungarian gothic metal band that originally recorded "Deep Inside" in 1999 for
European release, but through the efforts of Dark Symphonies the disc has been re-mastered and
brought to American shores in 2001. "Deep Inside" is basically a long EP or a short LP - take your pick. Of the seven songs on "Deep Inside," five songs are in the traditional vein with two pieces providing a moody prelude to one song and a stark musical interlude for the finale.
Gothic metal bands are a dime a dozen these days, but the genre has a lot going for it. The inclusion
of female vocals, choirs, and the complex sounds of classical music makes for an interesting
environment to write and perform songs in the metal vein. The switch between gruff male vocals and
sweet female vocals isn't strikingly original these days; however, there is a certain uniqueness to
the delivery of Andras' and Juliette's intermixing vocalizations. The lyrics draw their inspiration from
the writings of Edgar Allen Poe, H.P. Lovecraft, and Henry William Longfellow for a richness that is
unique all the way around. As you might imagine, the lyrics are dynamic and descriptive - certainly a
highlight!
Two songs deserve specific mention. "Hymn To The Night" has more traditional metal riffing and
good interplay in all aspects of the music and lyrics. "The Picture" has an epic feel to it and the
length of the song has nothing to do with that feeling. Both "Hymn To The Night" and "The Picture"
mix in aggressive, almost thrash-like guitar work amid the dark and heavy gothic undertones.
While much of "Deep Inside" sounds unique, much of it sounds similar from song to song. However, I have high hopes that Without Face have the talent and drive to continuing developing in the years to come. Perhaps Dark Symphonies has another Without Face effort in the works? Let's hope so.
A cool interactive portion is included with the disc with features on the band's biography, lyrics, a video, and contact information.
"Deep Inside" is strictly for fans of the gothic metal genre. So, if you're into the likes of Tristania, Trail Of Tears, and Autumn Tears you will find Without Face worth hearing.
"Deep Inside" was produced by Blacky G. and Without Face.
Without Face is Juliette and Andras on vocals, Roomy on guitars, Akos on bass, Sasza on synth, and Suto on drums.
For more information visit http://www.darksymphonies.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 © 2004 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights
reserved.
Revised: 04 Dec 2023 22:19:31 -0500.
