Dendura – New Life
Self-Released – April 22nd, 2006
By Jason Jordan
Whereas
Nile possess no traits that directly link them to Egyptian culture, other than a general affinity, the female vocalist of
Dendura is actually part Egyptian. Falling somewhere between the angelic Cristina Scabbia (
Lacuna Coil) and the demonic Angela Gossow (
Arch Enemy), Aziza comes across as a compromise not unlike Kirkevaag of
Madder Mortem. As forceful and aggressive as the lead vocals are, the music itself is keyboard-fueled prog, which walks the line separating rock and metal like a tightrope – attempting not to sway too heavily in either direction. Admittedly, for those of you who favor the clear-cut approach, this style is not this reviewer’s favorite.
Still, contrary to numerous unsigned bands, the creators of
New Life have enjoyed a heap of positive feedback since forming a mere two years ago. In addition to various newspaper articles, the Michigan-based quartet has contributed to six movie soundtracks, with negotiations for a seventh pending. One featured song has been “I Have a Gun,” which, when examined alongside the others, is a bit out of place on an album that also carries song titles such as “I, Nephthys,” “Isis,” and “Mummified.” At first it might sound as if the beginning of “I Have a Gun” is the tip of a symphonic black metal iceberg, but prog rock/metal is really all you’ll be colliding with. In fact, most of the 36-minute, middle-paced
New Life has about as much bite as a toothless hobo – the pressure still inflicts pain, though the end result is less excruciating. However,
Dendura’s songs are quite focused, if not overwhelmingly determined to reach their respective destinations, plus the fact that their lyrics complement the horror genre has evidently bolstered, or perhaps even triggered, their success. But – and the following applies to myriad unsigned bands – their output could use better production and tighter musicianship.
4.5/10
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