ELÜPIA “Wilderness” /CD/

The debut full-length studio album by Japanese Symphonic Metal band.
As with many contemporary Japanese Rock bands from a Land of the Rising Sun, the level of technical ability is exceptionally high, but ElüpiA seem a clear notch above the rest in terms of application and composition. This band stands out from the other clone bands of the European acts like Nightwish, Within Temptation and Epica because of the ability of mixing Classical music, Rock, Electronics, little hints of Jazz and, sometimes, Techno. In fact, we can find here not just Symphonic Metal, but Avant-garde music since there are a lot of influences. Another important element of this band is the voice of the soprano singer Nene, whose it is clearly inspired by the one of the former singer of Nightwish, Tarja Turunen. It’s not a case that during the last months they proposed on stage some songs of the Finnish band.
The interesting element is the unusual and unexpected presence within the line-up of two keyboardists (organ and piano). By one side, this choice contributed to strengthen the rhythmic section, while by the other it has enriched the band sound.
The album as a whole borders on becoming a piece of musical art in places, such is the depth of technical dexterity on display, which is expertly performed, this of course makes it a difficult one to get up and dance to but moreover the listener is compelled to sit, listen and absorb each section, indeed as the album progresses it becomes even more absorbing and enchanting.
A really impressive release. If you are a fan of Symphonic or Classical Female Fronted Metal, you should really be checking this album out!!
ElüpiA, 2013 (ELWN-001). Made in Japan. First press. Comes with OBI.


Tracklist:
1. Risky Wine 5:09
2. Man In The Fire – The Frantic Escape 5:24
3. Fly My Butterfly (Retake) 5:58
4. Ödland (Oedland) 3:57
5. The Hypnotizing Forest (Retake) 7:24
6. Forest Run (The Hypnotizing Forest - Second Movement) 4:16
7. I Like My Shoes 7:26
Total playing time: 39:36 min.