Band : Sirenia

Album Title : The 13th Floor

Label : Nuclear Blast

Distributor : PIAS

Release Date : 02/02/2009

Release : CD

A new album of this gothic metal band from Norway is equal to a new change of band members. This time Sirenia counts three new members. There is the Spanish female singer and eye-catcher Ailyn, guitar player Michael Krumins, known for his work with Trail Of Tears, and the session bass player called Kristian Olav Torp. On this new album “The 13th Floor” Sirenia adds more classical arrangements and displays by many choir arrangements and violins. In combination with the grunts in songs like “Beyond Life’s Scenery” and “The Lucid Door” this gives a darker touch to the songs. The many layers of choirs, vocals, grunts and instruments float come together very good but no more or no less. The track “Sirens Of The Seven Seas” is probably the best song on this new album with male clean vocals mixed with the choirs. The vocals of new member Ailyn instead are very different. Her predecessor Henriette Bordvik was darker and heavier while Ailyn’s voice is more sentimental. Although her presence can help Sirenia reach higher grounds. If you like the gothic style of metal and you are open to soaking up something different than your regular tastes, then you're in for a nice treat.

74/100

Guido Claes