CoC : Gothica - The Cliff of Suicide : Review

Gothica - _The Cliff of Suicide_
(Cold Meat Industry, 2003)
by: Xander Hoose (8 out of 10)

Italian neoclassicals Gothica are a professional lot. Keyboards, vocals, violins, oboe, drums and more -- all the instruments needed to create an atmospheric soundtrack have been carefully selected, rather than just thrown into the mix. The trademark vocals as performed by Alessandra have improved a lot since their last album: this time she manages to reach an impressive variety of frequencies with her voice without making it sound strained. Perfectly complementing her voice, Roberto's soothing male vocals cite the lyrics throughout the album. The whole sound and atmosphere breathes Dead Can Dance, but that quality level is never reached. That doesn't mean Gothica isn't any good; in fact, I think they're one of the most gifted gothic bands to come from Italy. _TCoS_ is a treat for any neoclassical gothic fan, and I'm curious as to whether or not they'll manage to receive more attention from a wider audience with this album.

(article published 27/10/2003)