High-quality songs that are perfectly balanced between Symphonic Metal, Metalcore and Melodic Metal with the odd Death Metal aspect.

After their 'Graveshadow' EP (2014) and full-length debut album 'Noctural Resurrection' (2015), the American band Graveshadow have returned this year to release their sophomore offering 'Ambition's Price'. Previously, the first album received divided criticism based on what I have been able to find and read. On one hand, the band's potential could be recognised thanks to solid influences such as Nightwish or Amberian Dawn through their music which sits halfway between Symphonic and Gothic Metal. On the other hand, despite the fact that the vocal technique of lead singer Heather Michele was uncontested, the melodies sounded too teenage-like, according to the authors.

When it comes to 'Ambition's Price', I was surprised to find myself listening to a perfectly balanced album when it comes to the singing technique. Songs such as 'Doorway To Heaven' or 'Ambition's Price' exhibit a strong and powerful melodic-heavy rhythm covered by pleasant growls. Right after such aggressive songs, the likes of 'Hero Of Time' and 'Return To Me' are perfect examples of the clean singing approach that definitely reminds me of bands along the lines of the aforementioned Amberian Dawn.

'The Unspoken' and 'Slave' are totally worthy of being listened to and I can understand why the potential of Graveshadow was highlighted a few years ago. I must give a special mention to both the guitar solos – they are highly appreciable – and the clean and well-mastered production of the album which makes the music crystal-clear and very professional.

Through this album, Graveshadow have delivered eleven diverse and high-quality songs that are perfectly balanced between Symphonic Metal, Metalcore and Melodic Metal with the odd Death Metal aspect, and I want more of it!

Julien Marbaix