UPON WINGS – Afterlife EP

Label: Sword Of The Spirit Records

Release Date: March 5, 2013

Rating: 9/10

Reviewed by: ToddStar

Having been a fan of symphonic rock from female-fronted acts such as Within Temptation, Delain, and Visions of Atlantis, I am usually a little hesitant when listening to another disc that proclaims the classically-trained range of the lead vocalist.  What the hell, it’s an EP and worse case scenario is the loss of 14:00. Besides, the disc has an all-star cast behind the scenes: the single was mastered by Kid Rock recording engineer Glenn Brown and guest vocals and production duties were shared by Brett Hestla (ex-Creed, Dark New Day).  Slaves on Dope guitarist Kevin Jardine (and producer with Uplift Productions) lent his talents to the disc as well as drummer Peter Tzaferis.  Johnny K’s legendary Groovemaster Studios (Disturbed, 3 Doors Down, Staind) in Chicago served as the studio for the recording of the tracks.  That being said, “Afterlife” kicks off the disc with some cool guitar work and more than able vocals.  Vocalist Anne Erickson doesn’t push her voice or try to overpower the instruments that accompany her.  This track is what I imagine someone like Sarah Brightman would sound like if you threw some metal underneath her vocals.  “You Are My Weapon” follows the flow of the last track.  The vocals are once again very well paired with the music, but Anne seems to flex her vocal cords a little more in the bridges and chorus.  “Take Away” has a cool vibe to it, but as the song progresses, it seems to blend in a little too much soon we are left with a good song, but something about the sparkle from the last couple tracks is missing.  As has been the case, Anne shows us her vibrato and some of her range.  “The Dream (I’m Only Happy When I’m Sleeping)” closes this collection.  This song is unlike anything else on the disc.  I really like the diversity in the style of this track, as it shows the depth of Anne’s voice and another dimension to her song writing and performance.  The instrumental track underneath her voice would be bland and forgettable, but when you add the vocal track, it becomes very ethereal.  I can’t wait to see what Anne does next.

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Category: CD Reviews