For all those who enjoy operatic vocals, classical/orchestral arrangements and all things symphonic.
Lumus is a symphonic metal band from Portland OR. In late 2009 Jon Lumus decided to create a darker symphonic sound that interweaved his classical training. He turned to the internet and found various members finalized by jazz singer Charlotte Von Camp in early 2011. They have worked hard on creating a complex album on both the musical and storytelling front and soon Lumus releases their debut ‘Bacchus Curse’.
The first main track ‘The Burning Plain’ also happens to be one of the best. A crushingly deep riff is complimented by haunting violin and thick arrangements. The bridge starts with a delicious bass and violin solo before being joined by a fast fret burning solo. ‘Challenge’ is a stupendous guitar and violin instrumental that stands out just for its technicality alone with the violin acting as a lead before the guitar takes over. This includes an array of melodies and increases in speed and density as it progresses. This same variety can be found through the whole album. ‘Scales Of Justice’ is slower paced with a grinding progression and plodding bass but it does have a ripping solo. On the other end of the speed scale ‘Possession’ is the fastest song fuelled by the cascading violin and the prominent bass giving it a more intense feel. ‘No Trace To Remain’ sounds reminiscent of Bob Catley’s solo work remaining a relaxed song until some noisy guitar erupts during the bridge with violin strikes adding real foreboding. Lumus saves the most complex song for the end with ‘Spiders’. This is the band at their most progressive and complex with a song that features plenty of time and melody changes. The chorus delivers plenty of frantic notes giving the feeling of spiders scrambling over the floor.
This is a superb symphonic metal release. With Lumus adding his violin and string arrangements, this album does have a different sound. The best comparison would be early Nightwish meets Lyriel. This is not one of those that tears into your head but as the plays mount up, it slowly sneaks its way in. Von Camp has a powerful and expressive voice, (think Simone Simmons), and can hit and hold notes with precision but she’s just beaten as the highlight by Lumus. His violin playing is wonderful and it really takes things to a different level. At times it acts as a second lead guitar which is really effective. Dustin Behm on the guitar offers plenty of furious solos and some wall smashing power chords. Together these three have cooked up a delicious symphonic recipe. The production is excellent delivering a crisp clear album where all parts can be heard distinctly.
This is an album for all those who enjoy operatic vocals, classical/orchestral arrangements and all things symphonic. If you’re turned off by this genre generally, this probably won’t have enough to convert you. The majority of symphonic/gothic bands seem to come out of Scandinavia and Europe, but States based Lumus looks set to challenge that perception.
Dave Scott
Subscribe to this comment's feed
