CoC : Lycia - Estrella : Review

Lycia - _Estrella_
(Projekt/Mazur, 1998)
by: Adam Wasylyk (8 out of 10)

The duo that comprise this darkwave/gothic/ambient act have really done something special here. Although having created some cool music in the past, Lycia have released an album that should serve as its apex. Estrella contains swirling emotions which delicately interweave with graceful keyboards that with each passing get better and more pronounced. High praise, you say? Damn right! Tracks like the intro "Clouds in the Southern Sky", "Tainted", "Tongues" and the title track don't come off in any way as pretentious or egocentric, but rather emotionally-heartfelt and genuine. The first half of this album could go toe to toe with any of the better albums of this year, especially the new Katatonia album, where some parallels exist. Estrella isn't for everyone -- if you crave an adrenaline rush then Lycia are simply not for you. But for those who seek a different experience, to be rendered into a state of awe from overwhelming dark ambiance, then this comes highly recommended.

(article published 1/10/1998)