The third full-length album from the gothic metallers of Liechtenstein turned out to be the last for the charming vocalist Sabine Dunser, who departed this world on July 7th as the result of a cerebral hemorrhage. The band, in a state of shock over what had happened, nearly decided to cease their existence, but since the vocals for the album had already been recorded, the musicians ultimately released "Griefshire," dedicating it to the memory of their friend.
With a total running time of 57 minutes, the album, like its predecessors, was recorded and mixed at the renowned Mastersound studio together with Alex Krull (Atrocity, Belphegor, Catamenia, Crematory, Erben der Schopfung, Theatre of Tragedy, Weltenbrand, Whiplash, Yasmin, and others). Virtually all songs were written by guitarist Pete Streit, except for "Die Stadt Die" by Thomas Saxer and "Forgotten Love" by Sabine Dunser, while the final bonus track "HEAVEN AND HELL" is none other than a very charming cover of the famous BLACK SABBATH hit.
Continuing the traditions of its predecessor "Dark Clouds in a Perfect Sky" (2005), all the material sounds like a heavier version of THEATRE OF TRAGEDY's "Aegis" (1998) and Within Temptation, featuring the original beautiful and heartfelt vocals of the late Sabine. To my surprise, there was even some juicy growling from bassist Tom, though only in two songs. Having virtually eliminated sampled electronic effects and added more power to the guitar sound, the band now sounds very "metal." And after listening to the gorgeous slow number "How Long" performed by Sabine, one begins to wonder whether the new vocalist Sandra Schleret will be able to handle her duties.
The new album confirmed the competitiveness of the Liechtensteiners on the global gothic metal scene. So we await further achievements from the musicians in their updated lineup.