Tacere
The Legend of Gevaudan EP
6
The Legend of Gevaudan is the first real attempt at a proper full-length recording from Finnish power/prog metallers Tacere. Based loosely on French folklore, this seven song promo tries desperately to produce something that is epic in scope and powerful in presentation. Unfortunately, due to a variety of factors, most glaringly a poor vocal performance, they fail. However, seeing as how this promo is more of a test for method than an actual attempt to push their material upon the masses, I have to admit that Tacere is at the very least promising.
Things start off pretty well with a four minute instrumental that displays some passable power/speed-metal riffwork, and a few interesting time signatures that show off the band’s progressive leanings. At this point, I am almost entirely tricked into thinking this will be an enjoyable experience. But only almost. Because, at the beginning of the next track, “Set Me Free”, lead singer Karri De Monet makes the fatal error of opening his mouth and letting forth with some really awful vocals. I’ll be honest, I’m not the biggest fan of the this style of singing, even when it is done well. But, when done poorly… well, then you’ve gone and spited me and your key fan base. Every so often I throw on Walls of Jericho by Helloween and go for a drive, occasionally I will work up the ire to sing along. I’m assuming that this is what I sound like. Folks, that is not good. Even female guest vocalist Helene Haarapanta leaves a lot to be desired. It’s too bad because the actual players are tight as hell, and throw together some interesting compositions. But, of course, you’ve heard this story before.
Tacere isn’t going away any time soon. They’re a very young band (average age is around 20) that needs to tie up some loose ends. Most pressingly, they've got to get a real vocalist. Not for my sake, but at least for those who dig this style of music. Aside from that, everything about this release is aces. The players can play, the production is solid for an unsigned act, and the actual presentation is pretty damn professional. This band has its head on straight, power/prog metal lovers be on the look out.
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TacereEras Reveries
10/19/2005