Sept. 7 2012 marks the release of LEAVES' EYES's front woman, Liv Kristine, solo album "Libertine" through Napalm Records. For those of you unfamiliar with Kristine's solo work, she has a back catalog of full length and singles dating back to 1998. Throughout the years, she has also fronted THEATER OF TRAGEDY, and most recently, LEAVES' EYES. Looking over her biography, Kristine has accomplished quite a lot in the music, and television, industry. I would love to now write a nonstop flow of accolades about how much I loved the album, and to please go out and buy it, like right now. However, I just can't, because truthfully, I didn't like the album. Why? Well, there's the problem, I don't really know why.

Kristine's voice is lovely; having an almost mournful, yet angelic quality to it, and it is showcased quite well on "Libertine". The sound production is excellent, the tracks are layered just right, and the album wraps itself up nice and tight. I just am not a fan of this particular kind of music. It's almost like Goth meets Pop Metal (think EVANESENCE) which doesn't really work for me. Plus, the songs run the same pop format as most pop artists do. The songs are about longing for someone, being in love, falling out of love, finding someone new, and of course walking away a better person. Meh, is all I can say.

If you are a Liv Kristine fan, I'm sure you'll enjoy this album. But for this Metalhead, it's not my groove. I'd say 7 outta 10. Until next time, stay well and live free. Cheers!