Ulterium Records (2012)

It shouldn’t really be a surprise that the infusion of modern metal with female melodic/ gothic overtones results in this new outpouring of acts from Scandinavia. End Of September hail from Vaxjo, Sweden, founded in 2009 and releasing this self-titled debut after a long search for the right female voice to deliver this material with grace and sophistication. Elin Redin possesses that duality for guitarist Erik Tordsson’s compositions, and rounding out the lineup are bassist Johan Nojd and drummer Johan Svensson- giving these 9 songs an emotional blend of Sevendust/Evanescence guitar and drum groove power against the more bombastic Within Temptation orchestration parts and vocal magnificence.

The songs are a mix of heavier, down-tuned aggressive guitar-oriented arrangements perfect for the modern fans to perform spasmodic movement to like the opener “Isolated” and “Inner Voice” and the more obvious commercial/ hook-oriented songs with stronger keyboard refrains and Elin’s soaring melodies carrying “Waiting For The Rain” and “A Place To Go”. Erik contributes occasional gruff vocals to provide a deeper atmosphere, but his guitar riffing and solo spots stick to the heart of each song- upping the memorability factor right from the start.

I think End Of September will appeal more to the age 30 and under segment of the population and probably attract more attention from North America because of their crunchier sound. Elin will be one of the female vocalists talked about in end of the year polls, her presence on this recording very dynamic and engaging. A decent debut, hopefully as the band continues forward they will shed their obvious influence roadmap to create something even more special.

www.endofseptember.net
www.ulterium-records.com

Rating: 4 / 6

Composed by Matt Coe