Here we have the debut four-track EP from Greek prog metal quartet Zabrahana who hail from Thessalonika. They are one of the most organised independent outfits I have come across, yet somehow they have managed to forget to say who is in the band, so while I can tell you they have a female singer, with male bassist, guitarist and drummer, that is it. They say they are influenced by Karnivool, Opeth, Porcupine Tree, Tool and Riverside, and anyone listening to this would quickly pick out the Opeth, Porcupine Tree and Tool stylings as they are very apparent indeed.
Given this is a independent debut I am making the assumption that this is probably the first band of any import for any of those involved, in which case this is a very interesting and enjoyable release indeed. Other influences are obviously the Gathering and Without Temptation, and the band are more than happy to appear delicate and vulnerable as they are to crunch heavy riffs in dramatic syncopated fashion. There are times when this feels more like a demo than a finished album, and it would certainly be interesting to hear what they could do if they had a strong external producer to guide them as there is definite promise. Their complex song structures and interweaving arrangements and time signatures with multiple sections make this a band to keep an eye on. Nice.
Rating: 7/10
Links:
https://www.facebook.com/zabrahana