From Stuttgart, Germany, comes something darkly beautiful and new. Mastermind behind the concept of SCHWARZER ENGEL is Dave Jason, a multi-talented individual with a clear vision of the music he wishes to share with the rest of the world. Elaborate orchestral arrangements are the background to deep, gruff German vocals, combined with catchy guitar riffs, and brutal double bass drums. Though in ways reminiscent of RAMMSTEIN, SCHWARZER ENGEL (English translation of the band name is Black Angel) adds personal twists and turns to make this not just another metal band with songs done with German lyrics.

Though formed in 2007, it wasn't until 2010 that the world was given their first taste of SCHWARZER ENGEL. Debut album "Apokalypse" was well received by critics and reviewers, and was quickly followed up with "Geister Und Damonen" that same year. Continuing to build upon his fixed vision, Dave Jason released a second full length album "Traume Einer Nacht", which had seemed to even improve upon those two previous works, adding more elements from other genres of metal and even beyond. Two years would lapse before a tease would be released to the growing fan base. The "Schwarze Sonne" EP contained the self-titled single that would later be released as a track on the third full length album "In Brennenden Himmeln". With only four tracks, three of which were the single, a piano version of the same song, as well as an instrumental piano version, it left fans wanting more. They wouldn't be left wanting for long.

More than just a Symphonic Metal album, "In Brennenden Himmeln" (English translation; In Burning Skies) borrows sounds and effects from Gothic Metal, Industrial, and more. Bombastic, melodic, and dark "In Brennenden Himmeln" would prove to be their hardest hitting album to date. The symphonic and orchestrated aspects will be somewhat of a reminder of NIGHTWISH, though not a direct copy by any means. Hints of IN FLAMES can be found in some of the melodies and AMON AMARTH in the more brutal riffs.

Haunting from the opening notes, title track "In Brennenden Himmeln" sets the standards high for what this album contains, and what follows is one song after another to delight your dark desires. Heavier, and diving deep into the abyss, "Der Untergang" delivers something of a Punk aspect to the mix. With catchy guitar riffs, it became an instant favorite. Also a favored track, "Der Fährmann" packs an almost medieval styled punch of Gothic Metal. Taking a bit of a turn toward a more Industrial sound "Feuer Mit Feuer" and "Psycho-Path"  were personal picks as well, the latter more frenzied and bloodthirsty. Both contrasting and complimenting Dave Jason's vocals, the epic operatic vocals of Joan Of Arc really brought something special to "Schwarze Sonne" making it my personal pick of the album. It's so beautiful and catchy, one I wanted to sing along with even though I neither speak German nor knew the lyrics. It made me wish for more tracks with the dual of vocals similar to this track.

If you are a fan of RAMMSTEIN, enjoy your Metal hard hitting, with a gothic flare, you might really enjoy "In Brennenden Himmeln". It's hard, it's heavy, and it delves into darkened worlds in a new and intoxicating way. SCHWARZER ENGEL delivers yet again with "In Brennenden Himmeln".