Metal maniacs, rejoice! I'm proud to present to you: EVEN VAST; signed via Greek label Sleazy Rider Records, hailing from Italian grounds - performing Gothic Metal, on their debut album entitled "Hear Me Out" (originally released in 1999) (released on 12^th August 2016).

Since formation in 1998; the quintet in question have 3 albums behind them, as EVEN VAST. 2008-present - they're presented as EVEN MORE VAST. In the shadowy realms of Gothic Metal; the darkest depths of Italy spores a doom & gloom atmosphere in the region of Aosta, now residing in English territory...this love/sadness based theme composes an intricately designed production, showcasing unprecedented forms of musicianship and powerful instrumentation that excels with distinct showmanship. "Hear Me Out" gets the re-mastered treatment and expands the experience with 3 Live exerts to get your monies worth, consisting of 9 re-mastered tracks of the original record ranging at around 46:26 - this female fronted quartet compiles an interestingly constructed balance of Doom Metal instrumentation while fusing that with a Gothic Metal aesthetic. However, some tracks may seem "whiny" to the average Metal maniac - in vocalization sense.

For example; "Never Hear Me" showcases self-induced dramatics from vocalist and keyboardist Antonietta Scilipoti. Her vocal cords are stellar and brilliantly sung; only the direction and focus of the themes here are a little discouraging to absorb myself into...however, instrumentally everything sounds complex with dexterity and efficiency. "Once Again" shows off the adept prowess of Luca Martello on guitars riff away with pummeling results - sufficiently demonstrating the Doom Metal aesthetic built in proficiently. "The One You Wish" has another dramatic effect; though it sounds groovy with a punch line to immerse yourself with an interesting element of brutal composing. The powerhouse from Diego Maniscalco on bass and Paolo Baltaro on drums and assorting the programming helps keeps things upbeat and enlightening with musical fulfillment. This substance is balanced with sludge/doom/stoner implementations, atmospherically and instrumentally.

"Foolish Game", "Memories" & "Energy" ascends the experience with the vocals growing on me and appreciating the elegant lyrics that get better in time with repeated listens. Cleaner elements balance with occasional male growling and shouting patterns for a unique complement, "Ru" concludes the original album and is a 7:13 long experimental epic, featuring running water for ambiance sake...short pauses and technical enticements compiled for an entertaining occurrence. Recorded in August, 1998 at Beauford Recording Studio, Bovenkarspel, Holland... re-mastered by Luca Martello at Major Oak Audio Mastering (Nottingham, UK) and including 3 bonus Live tracks - "The One You Wish", "Once Again" & "Over" I would recommend in buying "Hear Me Out" if you're a veteran and is certainly worth checking out for newbies ultimately. For fans of LACUNA COIL, THE GATHERING, JOY DIVISION & MOONSPELL. <