CLOSTERKELLER „Compilation – Promo”

This is my first exposure to this Polish “atmospheric rock” band, and let me tell you that I was quite surprised. When I finished listening to this promotional compilation, I was surprised that I haven't heard of Clostekeller before. The band has been around for some time now. Their first album was released in 1989 and a number of albums followed, including 2 live albums and a best of cd. They even opened up for Paradise Lost a while back, so some credibility is certainly there. Closterkeller consists of five members, most notably the female lead singer Anja Orthodox, whose angelic (and quite angry at other times) vocals send chills down the spine.

The production on the songs from the promo is professional enough to be heard on any major radio station, but one thing that might hold Closterkeller back is the fact the all songs are sung in Polish. For Polish listeners (like myself) this is not a problem but for the rest of the world, it may be a disadvantage. But don't let this discourage you from checking this band out, because they are worth the listen. Elements of gothic rock/metal are found throughout the 5 songs, but Closterkeller add something extra to their music that most gothic metal bands lack; simplicity yet the ability to write great songs. No over the top keyboard arrangements, no female/male duets, just great rocking songs. The music of Closterkeller is very moody and atmospheric, so fans of bands like Theatre of Tragedy (preferably the Aegis album), Nightwish and Within Temptation, take note. I myself will surely like to get a hold of some of Closterkeller's older albums. Great introduction to this band, yet too short. Check them out!

note: 8 / 10