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By JEFF MAKI
Originating from Helsinki, Finland, Lullacry sensibly combine elements of pop and metal in a style similar to their countrymen, HIM. The band doesn't stray far from this formula for even a second of Vol. 4. Every song contains heavy riffs and hooks from frontwoman Tanja's pop-goth tinged vocals. Tanja's melodies carry each track. At times, she sounds like a cross between of Gwen Stefani and Ville Valo of HIM. The lyrics are somewhat typical of this genre, dealing with past and current relationships and lost love. But Tanja puts her heart and soul into each and every lyric.
Vol.4 is on par with Lullacry's previous release, Crucify My Heart, sounding almost like the second part of those sessions. Is this a bad thing? I think not. Lullacry's style is one that is getting more and more recognition, becoming more popular every day. It's unlikely, though, that Vol. 4 will be the breakthrough that puts the band into the mainstream. Radio and MTV are more interested in promoting Creed clones than breaking a fairly new act like Lullacry. Songs like "Love, Lust, Desire," "Fire Within" and "Stranger In You" are catchy but still guitar-driven enough for the average metal fan. They could all easily be singles. "Heart Shaped Scars" and "Soul In Half" show more of the goth side of the band. Truthfully, there are no bad songs anywhere on this recording.
Who knows? Maybe this style of goth metal is the new "hair metal" of today. It certainly features the pop elements of those over-the-top acts. The songs are poppy, catchy and heavy and Vol.4 is a different and enjoyable listen for the average rock or metal fan.
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