It has been eight long years since the English of 'Winter In Eden' have released an album, their last studio recording 'Court of Conscience' dating from 2014. They return to the symphonic metal scene with 'Social Fake' which offers us 10 compositions for a fairly short duration of less than 40 minutes. Led by singer 'Vicky Johnson', the band evolved slightly as guitarist 'Sam Cull' was replaced by 'Benji Lynch', the rest of the lineup unchanged with 'Steve Johnson' on keyboards and producing, 'Ian Heddle' on bass and 'Steve Hauxwell' on drums.
The eponymous title of the album (see video above) begins with an energetic first composition with catchy melodic lines and highlights 'Vicky Johnson' which delivers a remarkable first performance, then 'Never Let Go' continues in this melodic atmosphere and direct with a new memorable chorus and 'Out of Touch' shows a more sought-after face with variations of intensity and tempo and a very beautiful break in the second part of the title which gains momentum for a catchy finale. The following three compositions form the suite 'Critical Mass' which is introduced by the short narration 'Dear Diary' with doctored vocals, and which continues with 'The Change' which slowly rises in power with a new addictive melody, then, 'Rage' continues with intoxicating melodic lines that never leave you and is much more measured in a catchy and lively rock style. Back to a heavier atmosphere with the mid-tempo 'Down' which gives an irresistible desire to headbang, then, 'Blind Acceptance' continues with original rhythmic variations and with a beautiful guitar solo. Make way for the beautiful melody of the ballad 'Silling Assasin' which shows a very endearing face and makes me think of the best ballads of 'Edenbridge', 'Vicky Johnson' having on this title the same intonations as 'Sabine Edelsbacher', and the album ends in a beautiful way by a catchy 'Exclusive Invitation' which should work well in concert and which offers us a last memorable chorus.
In summary, the English of 'Winter In Eden' return after a long absence with a very good album filled with compositions with catchy melodic lines from the first listen and 'Social Fake' should certainly be welcomed by all symphonic metal fans with singer... | |