CoC : Chalice - Chronicles of Dysphoria : Review

Chalice - _Chronicles of Dysphoria_
(Modern Invasion Music, 2000)
by: Pedro Azevedo (8 out of 10)

Yet another addition to the collection of female-fronted, mildly doomy bands, Chalice opt for a generally tame metallic backdrop upon which to lay their keyboard and violin melodies. Central to the band's sound is, of course, their female vocalist, who uses mostly soprano-type vocals but often displays an interesting range and introduces some variety into her performance. Chalice add violin and keyboard to a formula that reminds me much more of early The 3rd and the Mortal than the more bombastic likes of Tristania. The keyboard work, although competent, is not much of a highlight, whilst the violin is usually more interesting and sometimes pleasantly entwines with the vocals. It does, however, suffer slightly from the fact that it always emanates from the left side of your stereo (not very pleasant if you prefer headphones). Chalice have produced a very enjoyable and unpretentious-sounding melodic doom record that should be worth your attention if the genre interests you.

(article published 20/11/2000)

ALBUMS
14/1/2002	P Azevedo	7	Chalice - An Illusion to the Temporary Real