I first heard of SILENT BIRTH one year ago when I got in my hands a demo and a promo CD of them to review. Now the quartet from Greece has at last released its debut album, which was recorded in the early 2009 , entitled "Echoes". With influences ranging from BLACK SABBATH and METALLICA up to PARADISE LOST, ANATHEMA and TOOL the band established its style which I would characterize as alternative metal along with a few gothic Metal touches. SILENT BIRTH had left me good impressions back then ,showing good potential, and I was really curious to see what they have done and how much they have improved.

From the first time I listened to the album it was obvious that the band has improved in many aspects. No major changes were made to the songs compared to the demos except of some details that made them even better. The production is also really good. The main characteristic of their music is the beautiful and smart, slow or mid-tempo, guitar riffs. Also the keyboards, which have a supporting or more important role depending on the song, give us some very good melodies and create the proper atmosphere. Their music is simple and effective without highly technical elements and with a few solos, which is in no case negative as all the tracks leaving very good impressions. The only major weakness that I can find is again the vocals (which are handled by the guitarist). The singer has improved himself compared to what I have heard in the demos but still his vocals, without being bad at all, are not anything special, I could say they are average usual vocals, that in my opinion weaken the final result. A really good vocalist can change the tone and colour of his voice throughout the song ,and play more with his vocals range, so that he can express the feelings and the emotions of the lyrics and the music and as a result make the song more interesting and touching. And that is what I am missing from this singer and it is where I believe improvement is necessary.

SILENT BIRTH left me once again a very positive impression, they have improved and continue to show that they have potential. I found many very good songs such as "Hatred", "Sad Skies" etc that you will enjoy. I hope the band continues to improve and I wish them the best for the future.