Simulacra

Heonia is a young band from France, which has recently released their debut recording, the EP “Simulacra” which I am reviewing here. Although listed as a Melodic Progressive Metal band on metal-archives, I would rather classify the band as Symphonic Metal with some progressive touches.

As is the case with most Symphonic Metal bands, the music is epic and dramatic. The first track of the EP, entitled “Despair” is a good example of the bands style of playing. The track starts out with a chugging riff accompanied by a atmospheric keyboard layer. After a nice “guitar wail”, singer Marieke steps in. She has a clean voice with some operatic touches that fits in perfectly with the music. The song is rather diverse, with room for epic passages, but also some beautiful guitar leads. There is one point of criticism though, the passages featuring both Mariekes vocals and a piano melody sound somewhat off-key. I think the modulation isn’t spot-on. No worries though, because this is the only song with this problem.

Next song up is “Requiem for the Night”, which is notably slower than the first track. The start of the song could easily have been penned down by a doom metal outfit. The songs structure is quite simple, but has a catchy riff, making it highly enjoyable. I should mention that next to Marieke’s vocals, the band also employs male death growls, which sound exceptionally good in this darker track. “Mirror of Life”, the third track, starts of slow again. The song starts with a great and very slow and mellow riff, gradually building after Marieke’s vocals joined in and culminating in a rocking middle section.

“My (He)art is Bleeding” is the final track on this EP. This is a ballad with focuses on the piano and female vocals.

This is a great debut EP by this talented band. I am keeping an eye on them for sure.