When light hits a prism, it is refracted and unfolds a spectrum of colors that would otherwise remain hidden from the eye. This is also the case with IN MARCH. Five musicians from the Allgäu region of Germany bring the most diverse roots and imprints with them, bundle their visions and ideas in the creative process and thus create a range of nuances that could not be more multifaceted. The foundation stone for the band was laid in the summer of 2015 by cousins Markus Ponzer (drums) and Niko Hochholzer (rhythm guitar), who have been making music together since childhood - a well-rehearsed team that understands each other blindly. Shortly after they bring Angelina Gepting (lead vocals, lyrics) on board, who with her great voice has already contributed to many other projects from different genres (blues, rock, new wave etc.). Then add Alexander Pfefferle (lead guitar), delivering some unusual riffs from his progressive metal background, which significantly influence the sound of the band. Finally Felix Scholz (bass and backing vocals) completes the group with driving basses and harmonic second voices. In the first years the band acted as a cover project - but during the Pandemic break IN MARCH decide to write their own songs. The best possible decision, because with the debut album "Scenes" (released November 2022) an independent production is created, which combines influences from metal, rock and progressive metal with modern and unconventional songwriting as well as a distinctive sound. The songs differ fundamentally.

Opening with a classical orchestral filled sound on "Home" before the soft, celestial vocals take center stage backed by a nicely balanced melody that compliments without being over the top or harsh. Looks like we may be headed down the symphonic metal road. "Starting Anew" infuses a harder tone with meaty riffs and galloping bass and drum backline creating a pleasant and edgy song but never over powering the vocals which are obviously the main attraction. "Lost Generation" is a playful, nasty song with "grab your crotch" sexy vocals that made me feel like a hooker taking dirty while she ties me up and spanks my bare bottom, much more attitude than on the first few tracks. "Fallout" strikes a different and diverse note with Angelina Gepting hitting new heights in a much slower layered vocal approach backed by a nice, pleasant  cacophony that blends together for a tasty listen.

I admit that I went into this review with a pre-conceived notion of being another symphonic rock album, but much to my surprise, SCENES delivers a nice, complex range and sound. They have enough hardness and rawness infused with delicate and playful melodies, yes, they will remind you of NIGHTWISH and EPICA at times, but also deliver uniqueness to stand on their own.