I was listening to SOUNDGARDEN a few weeks ago, and my nephew walked in and commented on the importance of grunge in music. It drove home just how inaccurate labels truly are. In fact, IMHO they are more Prog than most bands of the era. Just like BLACKWATER HOLYLIGHT, who don't seem to fit any one type, but straddle many "genres", but there is one undeniable fact. It's heavy!

When I heard the first cut their new album "Veil of Winter" I was worried it would turn into a 3 cord snore fest with heavy distortion, but as "Seeping Secrets" progressed, so did the music, becoming more nuanced as the song continued.

"Motorcycle" kept the trend going (honestly the entire album was a joy to listen to, keeping me interested) and it still was heavy! They drop tune their instruments to get that thick sound, and make use of it regardless of what their guitar sound is. From overdriven to distorted to clean chorus, it drives home the point they're not to be under estimated. Other notable songs were "Daylight" and "Moonlit" (oh, I see now) but as an entity, the full CD is very enjoyable.

They might not be virtuosos of their chosen instruments (they're not bad either) but the one thing I think they mastered was soundscaping. Every guitar sound produced by Laura Hopkins and Mikayla Mayhew was right on the money, the beat provided by Eliese Doray was on point, and then there were the vocals. A cross between THE CRANBERRIES and BLONDE REDHEAD (true Rick & Morty fans should know them) with a touch of JESUS & MARY CHAIN to boot, it's the harmonies that truly set the stage for a trip fantastic, with beautiful transitions between key and tempo/rythm changes being guided along with a basic but still well thought out bass line laid out by Allison Faris.

Before I finish this up, it must be mentioned that the synthesizers (courtesy of Sarah Mckenna) were the final piece to this psychedelic romp, very subtle and brilliantly used to enhance the overall vibe. Give it a listen, it's well worth your time!