This band is characterised by the beautiful vocals, and the swirling textured soundscapes. I find it particularly appealing that they come across as a musical ensemble, and not just a vessel to showcase one person's talents.

None of the sonic elements are overstated, giving the whole experience a nice hypnotic quality; this CD is great to listen to both actively and passively.

Hope they come out to Australia soon, so we can see them perform live!
                            Read more...
                        

                            
Fantastic cd, Very original Group that will go very far if they keep producing music like this!
My favourite cd at the mo, out of my collection of about 1500. Love it!
                            Read more...
                        

                            
One of my best discovery of the year. Beautiful melodies and moody songs.
I predict a great future for this band!
                            Read more...
                        

                            
I am not the first Country Gentleman astride a horse who has had his attention caught by the buxom charms of a comely wench. Never mind that my residence is distinctly urban, nor that my position is not aboard a herbivorous quadruped. Equally I do not wish to cast aspersions on the reputation of singer Nel, who takes centre stage on the photograph that adorns the back of this album. For sake of fairness I should point out the rest of the band look pretty hot too.

This is the debut album by Sheffield four-piece Dyonisis. They use a double-female vocal attack from lead singer Nel and Louisa, the latter also plays piano. Tom and Marcus take care of guitar/programming and bass respectively. Together they stir up maelstroms of sound. "Hunter" has the sort of beats and subtle electronics of Switchblade Symphony, yet the guitars sound more like Collide. Operatic vocals soar, which blend with the more traditional pop vocals. There's an urgency and tension to the music that draws the listener in. This sort of sound is more usually associated with US bands. Meanwhile 'underwater' guitars usher in "Reaching". The pace is contemplative, yet never turgid. Then around the three-minute mark a surge of guitars enters the fray, taking the song to another level. This sort of dynamics is perfect for those that like the idea of a roller-coaster, but find the physicality of the ride too disturbing.

The guitars are brought to the fore for "Xact". This is atmospheric music, full of layers. The emotional intensity is high. The use of quiet/loud dynamics, plus loud FX-laden guitars and strong, yet vulnerable female vocals on "Winter" remind me of The Gathering when they covered Slowdive's "When The Sun Hits". There's a hint of Goth Metal, maybe Within Temptation, about "Winter" too. It's tempting to let yourself get washed away by the tide of guitar. Then "Pretty At A Distance" blindsides the listener. It's based around just Nel and Louisa's voices. It is spell binding – and shows that we don't have to give Dyonisis up to Kerrang! just yet. There are hints of This Ascension, Faith and The Muse and early Miranda Sex Garden.

Fans of ex-All About Eve guitarist Tim Bricheno will enjoy the soft rock guitar soloing during "Step Away". Elsewhere "Remember Me" passes in a melancholy fashion. I imagine the video featuring the band sitting by a stream, recalling loves lost and paths not taken. They would then wander around a castle, before retiring to the pub (this last bit would not necessarily be filmed). "Distance" features a fabulous whooshing noise and more guitars that echo and chime. Missing someone because they are far away is such a common human emotion that all can empathise. The gentle swells of oceans of Cure-like keyboards help the feelings flow. There are mixed emotions here though – and that all too human conflict keeps things interesting. When the ocean of guitars comes crashing in it leaves me feeling emotionally drained, but I feel catharsis, and most importantly I feel truly alive.

Then it's time for the final song "Rainy Day". I can't believe this album is nearly over already. While the subject matter suggested by the title might not sound the most instantly interesting the crunchy guitars keep the intrigue high. There's also some excellent bass during the quieter moments. The song builds and builds and more than justifies its seven minute plus running time. I'm particularly fond of the line: 'I wanted smiles, you gave me screams'. The guitars at this point sound like some of the quieter moments of Fields of The Nephilim's Elizium album. Not in a derivative way either, they just express an emotion, while preparing the listener for the turmoil to follow. When the guitars, bass and drums lock together for a thrilling rock out there's an element of early All About Eve. I'm never a fan of technical ability as an end in itself, but here it's used to express emotion and thrills on every listen.

There are elements of various genres to Dyonisis. The guitars are sometimes shoegazing, the beats sometimes trip-hop, the guitars sometimes metal/prog rock but each element is blended perfectly. The band aren't worried about fashions, so sound timeless. If Dyonisis can offer sustained momentum they deserve a large and devoted fan base. They deserve to be huge. I can't wait to see them live. I might leave the horse in the stable though...
                            Read more...