Lacrimosa - Elodia (1999)

Artist: Lacrimosa
Album: Elodia
Year: 1999
Country: Germany
Style: Gothic Metal, Symphonic Metal, Neo-Classical Metal



[DarkEternal's Review]: Even in the obscure, sub-genred world of heavy metal, neo-classical acts such as Lacrimosa often go unnoticed. Elodia is a charged album with several emotional high points reflected in masterful execution of orchestral instruments. Deep bass male vocals are accompanied by beautifully melodic female singing at moments that often parallel the music. The piano plays a vital role in many songs as well, doing what pianos do so well: creating an entirely separate orchestra, so to speak, among the predominantly stringed and wood instruments that make up the meat of the music in this album. Sanctus, definitely a highlight of the album, incorporates spine-tingling church choir-esque vocals. There really isn't much more to say, other than that this album is beautifully arranged and beautifully executed; certainly, a gem among neo-classical works today. Both fans of metal and fans of classical music will immensely enjoy this album. The two genres are extremely similar in many ways (in fact, metal song structure is completely based on that of classical music), and Lacrimosa intergrate them perfectly.

[Tracks]:
1. Am Ende Der Stille (8:09)
2. Alleine Zu Zweit (4:18)
3. Halt Mich (3:59)
4. The Turning Point (4:59)
5. Ichverlasse Heut Dein Herz (8:32)
6. Dich Zu Töten Fiel Mir Schwer (8:01)
7. Sanctus (14:13)
8. Am Ende Stehen Wir Zwei (5:50)
9. Und Du Fällst [Bonus Track] (5:03)

[Download]: Megaupload