Second album by London-based Grace Solero.
London-based Grace Solero (a name shared by both the band and lead singer) are new to me and I have to confess that after my first run through 'Hundred Years Apart' I wasn't overly enamoured with the electro-metal style or the nature of the material. Once I gave the CD a chance I was taken in by the hypnotic melodies, performances and Grace's distinctive vocals, which have more than a hint of Alanis Morissette about them. Grace works closely with Californian born guitarist Dan Beaulaurier and the pair are responsible for writing all the songs. Alongside Solero and Beaulaurier the band line-up includes bass player Bjorn Zetterlund, who also acts as album co-producer and engineer, and drummer Maurizio Liberato.
'Hundred Years Apart' is Grace Solero's second album and, I believe, is a little less urgent than the debut 'New Moon' release. 'Riptide' and 'Electro' are typical of much of the material. There is an industrialised electronic undercurrent throughout and the music at times is ethereal yet probing. An infectiously repetitive bass line runs through the melancholic angst of 'Once Again' whilst the vocal delivery in 'St Ives' draws the biggest Alanis comparison. The acoustic 'The Woman By The River' is built on a hauntingly Celtic musical framework and is now a particular favourite after several spins. Grace's lyrics have a poetic insistence and are the perfect compliment to the imaginative melodies and dreamy hooks.
The involvement of Breed 77 guitarist Pedro Caparros (who co-arranged much of the material and helped refine the band's sound) and Tristania vocalist Mariangela Demurtas (who adds backing vocals to 'Electro') means Grace Solero already has something of a profile and this can only develop on the strength of 'Hundred Years Apart'. Granted it won't be everyone's cup of tea but it is certainly something different. I guess this could prove to be beneficial or a hindrance depending on how the band is marketed.
Dave Bott
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