MENA BRINNO is Symphonic Gothic Metal band from Tampa, Florida, USA and was formed in 2006. Up until now, they have released album "Icy Muse" in 2007, "Wicked Polly" in 2009 and recently their new, and third, full-length "Princess Of The Night".

Opening the album, "Princess Of The Night" guitarists, Doug Sellers & Marius Kozlowski, impressive riffing along with well played pounding drums. There is also a surge of fresh energies with the sound of the flute (and other symphonic elements) aside to the fantastic song with Katy Decker's unique voice. For general information, Decker owns a background of an professional opera singer & holding two degrees in studies regarding vocals. Decker left her opera career to pursue Metal back in 2003. Her opera singing reminds me a lot of Tarja Turunen (ex-NIGHTWISH). Through her singing she shows a variety of emotional states, from intrigue to sorrow to romance. Back to the material, the flutes on "Princess Of The Night" and "Blackmail" are played by Fausto Miro. "Blackmail" opens with elements of a classic orchestra, strong low tuned guitar riff, and an amazing guitar solo played by Marius Kozlowski.

"Serpentine Lullaby" displays a perfect unison of fervent guitar riffing with soft touch of the flute, a buildup towards a heavier and mysterious climate, charging opera vocals, gentle keys and harmonic guitars. On "Sonorous Dream" the band perfectly mix vibrant singing with crushing riffs and robust drumming. I could sense the atmospheric nature of EVANESCENCE. "Cross To Bear", as if taken out of an Opera act, shares melodic chorus alongside the heavy music. Melodic chorus, heavy low tuned riffs a total domination of Sean Currie's skin work. "Drown Within" slays with a melodic rhythm guitar section while brilliance and elements of Progressive Metal seize the moment on "Captive Soul". I really enjoyed that refined drum and bass synergy. "Sacrifice" is a thing of beauty, not as heavy as the rest of them, but confidently pleasing with its serener merits.

Summing up, album which lasts over 30 minutes is perfectly done. I believe that this is one of best releases that mix traditional, operatic and Progressive Metal under the same halo. I was able to both relax and drown into deep thoughts while listening. Generally MENA BRINNO's music would be admired by listeners of NIGHTWISH, EPICA, WITHIN TEMPATION and for every heaviness fan who wants to explore the exquisiteness in music.