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Following in the footsteps of such legendary bands as Warrior, Rough Cutt,
and Psychotic Waltz, BENEDICTUM is San Diego, California’s latest and
mightiest ambassador to the world of heavy metal.
Conjuring the power and mystique of early Rainbow and classic Savatage, yet
forging a sound that is uniquely their own, BENEDICTUM’s stylish, epic brand
of metal delivers on all fronts: Awesome riffing, fierce rhythms, strong
melodies, shredding leads and delicate textures converge at the crossroads
of tradition and 21st century innovation topped off by what is truly one of
the most extraordinary voices in metal, courtesy of Veronica Freeman, whose
pipes have to be heard to be believed.
BENEDICTUM came to the attention of Dio guitarist Craig Goldy who was
impressed enough with what he heard that he turned the group on to long-time
friend and former band mate, Jeff Pilson (ex-Dokken, Dio). Equally blown
away by the bands raw talent and untapped potential, Pilson took on the role
of producer and recorded BENEDICTUM at his Los Angeles area studio, with
ZuZu Recording production partner, former Warlock bassist Tommy Henriksen,
sharing mixing duties.
The result of this collaboration was the incredible debut CD "UNCREATION".
Selected by Classic Rock magazine UK as one of the top bands to watch in
2006 and now selected by Rock Hard Germany and Classic Rock UK as one of the
top 50 albums of 2006, BENEDICTUM is laying it down in a big way! After
coming off of a successful tour with the legendary Doro, the future looks
amazing for BENEDICTUM!
And that future begins with their powerful second release, "SEASONS OF
TRAGEDY". With new drummer Paul Courtois delivering a powerful and heart pounding performance along with bassist Jesse Wright, the solid rhythm section provides the foundation for this journey into the heart of Metal. From the commando snare drum opening of SHELLSHOCK to the opus
masterpiece title track, the band has truly evolved their unique take on
modern metal, while still staying true to their classic roots. Rarely has a
metal band come so far so fast!
Here is a song by song description of the
record:
DAWN OF SEASONS- An instrumental prelude to the record, introducing the
"Seasons Theme"
SHELLSHOCK- This powerful doublebass rocker is the story of war from the
perspective of the soldier. Raw and honest, with a jaw dropping guitar solo
from fretmaster Pete Wells.
BURN IT OUT- A high energy musical ride on a heavy metal Harley! Featured on
this track is an infamous guitar duel between Pete Wells and long-time
Gravedigger Manny -----.
BARE BONES- This gnarly rocker features legendary guitarist George Lynch on
the solo. Heavy but melodic.
WITHIN THE SOLACE- Veronica screams "Vengeance is Mine" on this ballsy track
as the band lays down a powerful deep hypnotic groove. The seasons theme
makes a reappearance as well.
BEAST IN THE FIELD- A spooky piano sets up this wild energy-filled track as
Veronica sings about the beast of evil that exists in the world. The band
show their fun side as well as the track climaxes in an out of control
ending that defies all description. Also another mind boggling solo from
Pete Wells.
LEGACY- Veronica laments of what we all wonder- what will we leave when
we’re gone, what will our legacy be? This over a hyper electric metal track
that just keeps getting more and more intense.
NOBODIES VICTIM- With a cry of passion like no one else on earth is capable
of, Veronica emotes on the Chorus that she’ll be nobodies victim. And I
seriously doubt anyone will argue with her!
BALLS TO THE WALLS- This wall rattling rendition of the Accept classic is a
real highlight of the record. Veronica’s vocal stays true to the original,
but somehow weaves her powerful melodic sense into the tune in a way that
would do Udo Dirkschneider proud! This track also features George Lynch on
the guitar solos, as well as former Dokken and Lynch/Pilson Bandmate Jeff
Pilson on bass.
STEEL RAIN- With a powerful, emotional vocal that goes from the softest
whisper to the heaviest scream, Veronica Freeman proves herself on this
piece as the world class vocalist she truly is. The song keeps with the
themes of life and death, love and war in a gut-wrenching ballad of molten
power. Once again the seasons theme reappears.
SEASONS OF TRAGEDY- The record closes (except in Europe) with this
progressive metal masterpiece, a story of death and transcendence. From the
monk-like chanting of the introduction to the masterful instrumental
sections, this piece leaves the listener in total awe. Featured on this
track are the innovative keyboard work of Chris Morgan and the brilliant
guitar textures of Pete Wells. The end of the piece takes the listener on a
musical journey to enlightenment, where Veronica sings, "Winter is gone, and
springtime comes anon, and on."
CATCH THE RAINBOW- This European bonus track is an acoustic version of the
Dio era Rainbow standard. Also featured on guitar is longtime Dio guitarist Craig Goldy who displays some amazing fret work providing fills all throughout the track. We also see another side of Pete’s playing as he offers another brilliant solo in this track.
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