Live Review – Samandriel
When: Saturday October 15, 2010
Where: Starlite Room, Edmonton, Alberta
Long story short, I was intending to attend this show, in support mostly of Sonorous Odium, the direct support to Samandriel, but after checking the headliner’s music, I became a fan of them as well. Unfortunately, I was not going to be able to attend simply due to money. I had none.
Thankfully, a friend of mine is friends with Jeff B., the keyboardist of Samandriel, and he was able to hook me and Mrs. Blaspheme up with a guest list spot. So to begin this review: thank you Randee and Jeff!
Now, the show! A band from Calgary, Viathyn, opened up the night’s festivities, and did they kick ass! Unfortunately for them some technical difficulties plagued them and the vocals weren’t quite loud enough, but they impressed me enough to go and grab their CD from the merch booth. Proggy, folky, and technical as hell, Viathyn are going to be a force to reckon with. If you’re into stuff like Opeth, Eluveitie, Korpiklaani, and Finntroll, you might be into these guys.
The second band, Sonorous Odium, are some local favorites. Technical melodic death metal, I guess would fit their genre. I’ve been a fan since I saw them headline a show at New City. Fans of Swedish death in general should give Sonorous Odium a listen. They’ve got an EP out that you can expect a review of soon.
Finally, Samandriel took the stage, and despite having to follow Sonorous Odium’s set were undaunted. And they took home the win. Again, some technical difficulties affected the first couple minutes of their set, but they were soon smoothed over and a nearly flawless victory was achieved. Symphonic gothic metal is Samandriel’s forte, and Doneka’s voice is strong, full, and rich. Hoop’s death growls and bass work add a diversity to the band who, if this show is indicative, have a very bass-heavy live set. If you’re into Within Temptation, Lacuna Coil, The Gathering, etc., Samandriel will probably turn your crank as well. Give them a listen at MySpace, and if you’re interested order a copy of Awakening.
In all, it was a great night; new CDs in my collection, and some good live music. I hope to see all three bands again soon. Hopefully next time I’ll take the damn camera!