Phoenix (CD, fra Dark Princess

After 13 years since the last album was released, DARK PRINCESS manifested themselves with some singles, bit by bit, like a 'Phoenix' returning to life and now completing the rebirth in the form of a new album which carries the name of the firebird. Olga Trifonova's wide vocal repertoire knows no bounds and captivates. With her strong character and mezzo-soprano voice, the Russian overshadowed many of the generic voices in symphonic and gothic metal, leaving a lasting impression. It's a grand affair. Or a glamorous opera. With metal. The title track is a perfect introduction to 'Phoenix'. DARK PRINCESS remains faithful lyrically to the theme of the firebird, freedom, and never giving up, which ultimately culminates in a spiritual rebirth. Yearning, yet powerful, melancholic and sublime at the same time, DARK PRINCESS guides us through the songs in which love - often tragic - also takes a special place, without falling into kitsch. While Olga's vocal richness dominates the different moods of the individual tracks, male screams, for example in 'Phoenix' and the aggressively harmonic 'Falling to Fly', and clean vocals, such as in the powerful 'My Chance', provide additional variety. In the calmer compositions like 'The Light', an acoustic guitar creates a special atmosphere, while mainly electric guitars rock heavy and numerous guitar solos underline the cool metal element of DARK PRINCESS. At times, it becomes truly epic, but can also shine with ethereal sounds.