“The Strange Familiar” is a five-track EP giving the fans of Monica Richards a sneak-peek of a full-length album due to be released late 2011/early 2012.

Who says you can't teach an old dog new tricks?  As an “ole” hippie/rocker, I became disenchanted with the so called “normal” rock music of the past few decades.  I have found a new source of pleasure—Goth Rock.  I had to do my homework, but it was well worth it.  Monica is an extremely talented author, artist, and musician.  Her lyrics are phenomenal and the marriage of lyric to melody superb.  For those, like myself, who have not  thought about giving Goth a chance for whatever reason—please give it a good hard listen.    “Armistice” is a fine example of this.  Listen to the lyrics as well as her hauntingly beautiful voice.  She combines electronica with a tribal back beat which blends together in perfect harmony to compliment her powerful voice.

The foreboding sound of the deep cello and drone as “The Mighty” tale is told.  The upper register of strings softly accompanies the haunting back melody.  Her spoken word, so eloquently read.  The percussion kicks in and you expect the song to take off, but it maintains a moderate level, but  lets the lyrics shine thru.

“Strange Familiar”  was exceptionally difficult to listen to at present.  It is a heartrendingly hopeful song that speaks from the Other World.  It will have you crying your heart out in the beginning, but full of hope and peace by the conclusion.

Her remix of “A Good Thing”is definitely techno and dance oriented compared to the other songs on the disc.  

The finale of the CD, “Oreiades” is surprisingly short, but sweet.  Monica shows yet another side of her personality.  I like the acoustical change by recording in the caves of Castle Cottenau.  While the song is basically “subterranean”, is has the feeling of floating in space.

All in all a great CD.   
 
Rating: 4 out of 5 Pentacles

Review by:
Beth “Wytchskate” Kelley
Pagan Radio Network
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