Those who enjoy heavy music with impressive, wailing vocals will find that 'Beyond The Rain' pushes all the right buttons.

After learning a bit about their history, the seemingly quirky moniker is a simple compound word forged from its founders, the husband and wife duo of London Wilde (vocals) and Dave Starr (guitar/bass). While the name of Wilde might not raise heads, Starr's might very well ring familiar as a result of his work as bassist with Vicious Rumors, a Heavy Metal band who enjoyed moderate success during their time signed to major label stalwart Atlantic Records who released three of their albums. Often compared with Queensrӱche, Judas Priest and Iron Maiden, it is clear that those influences continue to inform his writing which becomes immediately clear from the outset on 'Beyond The Rain.'

Although Starr might have a more seasoned resume, the clear focus on '...Rain' is Wilde and her incredible voice. She is supremely talented possessing both power and range. She is also one of the few female voices in Melodic Metal that pushes her voice in ways similar to some of the other great male voices that share similar tonal qualities; think Rob Halford, Geoff Tate, Ralf Scheepers... even Tony Harnell just to name a few.

Penned by Wilde herself, the lyrics focus on the emotions of pain, torment, love and hope. However, an obvious series of predictable stanzas they are not, the topics covered are implied rather than explicitly stated. The additional abstract imagery along with the intensity of the music and dramatic vocal performance helps convey her thoughts. The album is heavy, dynamic, melodic and even Progressive. Perhaps a response to the devastating loss of her brother at the hand of suicide, she is able to channel her emotions into the microphone with absolute and sincere vehemence.

The mix is a bit askew in favour of drums and voice, but the overall performance and musicianship captured is enough to look beyond these minor shortcomings. There is no doubt that all of the album's contributors possess great talent, but the clear highlight here is Wilde's fantastic vocals. She surpasses many of her contemporaries with a clear, acute resiliency. While a majority of the tracks are up-tempo, WildeStarr shines just as brightly when they dial back the intensity on songs like 'Double Red,' 'Down Cold' and the power ballad 'Crimson Fifths.' Those who enjoy heavy music with impressive, wailing vocals will find that 'Beyond The Rain' pushes all the right buttons and is a worthy acquisition.

Brent Rusche