Primary Fear

Finally something for my ears! They call themselves Arachnes (Latin for spider) and sure, they come from Italy, but they do not play the usual pasta-power-speed that somehow make so many people feel sick. In the case of Arachnes, sure, they offer power and speed, but also a certain amount of symphony and neoclassicism. They cite influences as varied as Bach and Malmsteen (well, come to think of it, really not that varied…) and that is also very obvious, especially with the instrumental tracks. “Tota Pulchra”, for example, sounds like a pissed of Mozart.

Main songwriters are the brothers Franco (guitar) and Enzo (vocals & keyboards) Caruso, who have played under the name of Arachnes since 1995. Three albums and an EP is what they have managed to produce so far, and now comes the fourth CD called Primary Fear. Songs like the title track, “The Warning”, “Not Fair” and “Running in the Labyrinth” are all enjoyable due to lovely vocal lines and cool arrangements; especially “…Labyrinth”, which should appeal to all fans of Mr. Malmsteen. Pure neoclassicism!

The guitar sounds almost thrashy at places, which is also a plus. The only weakness of the album is that the vocals have been mixed way too low. It’s a pity, because Enzo really sings wonderfully, and sometimes even reminds you of a certain M. Kiske. In any case, he makes you wanting more. Perhaps there are too many instrumental tracks too, but taste varies, as everyone knows. All in all it’s a very good album, and Arachnes have managed to create something of their own drawing from their many influences. I wish them the very best of luck, so that they manage to write more beautiful music in the future. Thumbs up!

Originally written for http://www.nocturnalhall.com