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Review:
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It is three years since Tristania's 'Illumination',
and since then the band has undergone various line up changes,
including a newly recruited singer, Mariangela Demurtas
from Sardinia. Despite the changes, the band still utilise
the use of the distinct male/female vocal format to great
effect. 'Rubicon' was recorded during the first months of
2010, and as we can expect, we have another winner on our
hands here. The record gets underway with the catchy 'Year
Of The Rat', that will already be familiar with those of
you that follow the band very closely on the internet. 'Protection'
and the heavy sounding 'Patriot Games' carries on this excellent
start, offering upbeat but catchy material. 'The Passing'
is one of my fave tracks on this platter - a slower number
but with some awesome instrumentation, heavy guitar riffs
and great vocals. 'Exil' is a heavy sounding track, and
what an excellent first 5 tracks on this album. Does it
continue? Silly question really as it sure does. The catchy
'Sirens' continues with the lyrics "he couldn't get out
of bed in the morning, he thought life was a drag" I am
sure we all think like that sometimes :) 'Vulture' is another
cool track in true Tristania tradition, whilst the album's
closing trio maintain the high quality of music on this
release - 'Megical Fix' another highlight, with a kinda
late 70s feel to the chorus, while closer, the epic 'Illumination',
well, I am outta breath :) Mariangela has an excellent vocal
approach that fits in well with Tristania's style of music.
While pushing forward, this record still offers the Gothic
sound that is the trademark of their music and deserves
to offer the band further success in this genre. Another
great release from Napalm, and therefore 9/10 (Reviewed
by Dave)
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