Zeraphine - Traumaworld
Drakkar
Gothic / Alternative Rock
13 songs (56:36)
Release year: 2003
Zeraphine, Drakkar
Reviewed by Khelek
Archive review

Hailing from Germany, Zeraphine play a slower, softer version of the Gothic sound akin to their metal brethren such as the mighty Katatonia or The 69 Eyes. This is the band's second album, and already we can see that these guys are quite talented, especially in the songwriting area. Most of the songs on this album are pretty simple, but they are memorable and full of feeling. The album starts out with the mid-paced and upbeat Light Your Stars. This song definitely reflects the lighter side of the band in both the music and the lyrics. It is a good first song that gives you a feel for the overall sound of the band. The next track that really stands out to me is Failing Breath. This song is much slower and more depressing than the aforementioned title track, and the lyrics deal with darker topics such as hopelessness and loss. The verse and chorus flow well together, the verse slower and lighter, and the chorus heavier with the guitars making more of an impact. Wonderland is another one of my favorite tracks. It might be the fastest track on the album, reminding me of some early work by The 69 Eyes, albeit somewhat softer and lighter on the ears. The guitars, while still pretty soft in the mix, take more of a central role in this song, driving both the verse and the chorus. The lyrics of this song are also meaningful and memorable. The songwriting on this album really makes me feel like this band cares about what they're doing.

The production on this album is very clear; the deep vocals of Sven Friedrich are distinguishable above the instruments, but not overpowering. Sometimes I do think the guitars are a bit too soft, but that could be the side of me that wants these guys to be a metal band, which they clearly are not. I do think it would have been cool if they threw a little more technicality into this album to mix it up a little. In addition, this album does get to be a bit lengthy. I think they probably could have narrowed it down to nine or ten songs instead of thirteen. Also, only about half the songs or so really make me feel something, so there may be some filler here. All in all, Zeraphine does have a unique sound that is, in my opinion, different in a good way. I realize this is not everyone's cup of tea, however if you like softer gothic or alternative rock or just need a change from headbanging, check these guys out.

Killing Songs :
Failing Breath, In Your Room, Be My Rain, Wonderland
Khelek quoted 78 / 100
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There are 2 replies to this review. Last one on Tue Jan 27, 2009 12:51 am
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