ION INDIE MAGAZINE February 2015, Volume 9 | Page 15

ENEMY OF REALITY is a female-fronted Symphonic Metal band from Athens in Greece that was formed in 2013. With ENEMY OF REALITY being ION INDIE MAGAZINE’S featured band for this February Issue, I thought it only fitting that I also do a review on their music. And the timing could not be better! On June 30, 2014, they released their debut album titled “Rejected Gods”. This impressive album boasts featured guest performances by Ailyn Giménez (Sirenia), Mike LePond (Symphony X), Androniki Skoula (Chaostar) and Maxi Nil (Jaded Star, ex-Visions of Atlantis). “Medusa” is the perfect Symphonic opener to the whole album. From the very first sounds, we know that we have connected with a brilliant offering of Symphonic Metal music, defining the album! Opening with a mysterious intro, this builds with all the pomp and circumstance of the soundtrack of an epic action movie. It has dramatic change ups and operatic accents for punctuation—with its abrupt ending leaving the listener craving more. I especially appreciated “Lifeless Eyes”…I am confident you will be enchanted by the luring, hypnotic vocals of Iliana. It is one whose classic influences—with a dash of “kick ass”--you will wish to revisit time and time again. In the song “My Own Master”, a guest is well-known bassist Mike LePond (Symphony X), who does not disappoint with his unearthly lines. Coupled with a more than impressive guitar solo--and the total sum is perfection! This track is representative of true Power Metal. Mind-blowing keys, delivered by Marianthe, and heavier guitars, are front and center in the energetic “Grief Divine”. Those same keys are present with a modern touch in “Torn Apart”, with the added spark of the epic guitar work supplied by Steelianos Amoiridis. Also notable is “Her Descending Ghost”, showcasing some of the best elements of the band. This song is purely thrilling! Passionate vocalist Iliana Tsakiraki, with her richly trained Lyric soprano voice, both contrasts and compliments the master musicians that support her vocals. Iliana is joined by special guest Ailyn Giménez (Sirenia) on the song “Needle Bites”—the result is a mingling of vocal excellence, serving a smorgasbord feast for the ears! This is a personal favorite, with its powerful drums and masterful guitar work. An interesting track is the dramatic song “The Bargaining”, with guest Androniki Skoula (Chaostar). Both aggressive and menacing, this song mixes Symphonic elements and powerfully delivers. “Step Into the Light” is the fourth track, where another guest, Maxi Nil (Jaded Star, ex-Visions of Atlantis) is featured. Gorgeous singing coupled with the accompaniment of piano are the focus in this stunning ballad. In the melodic carnival-influenced “Twist of Time”, one gets a taste of the “quirky” side of this band with this track. Classic Symphonic elements and full orchestra sounds are represented in the song “One Last Try”. It features a nice Progressive change rate supported by a tight rhythmic section consisting of Thanos (Bass) and Philip Stone (Drums).