TEMPERANCE from Italy, I had no idea who they were. Steinmetal rose to the challenge to make me open up my mind, and I am continually grateful for it. I initially felt Deja Vu, postulating that the band from Sweden had reformed. As it turns out these masters of self-control are a classy Female Fronted act comprised of seasoned musicians who have composed a myriad of delightful songs which should appeal to any fan who enjoys the soprano siren sound.

I do not have too much information on individual band members, but let us assume that Marco is the one who provides the clean and harsh dual vocals. He has quite a range when he truly sings as evidenced on the closer "Relentlessly" or "Stronger" - a beautiful ballad or lullaby elevated by the lullacry of Chiara. As I mentioned there are many aspects of the Metal milieu made present. You have the "Beauty And The Beast" approach with tracks like the heavier opener "Tell Me" or "To Be With You" evoking the precedent established by NIGHTWISH, EPICA, AFTER FOREVER, THEATRE OF TRAGEDY and perpetuated by LEAVES' EYES. There are also plenty of poppy and commercial hits like "Heaven's Above", "Hero", "Scared And Alone", "Lotus" and the like, all in the vein of  HALESTORM or AMARANTHE, but with just enough power and promise to also please fans who support AMBERIAN DAWN, DAWN OF DESTINY,  EDENBRIDGE, etc.

Chiara's cadence is quite impressive, with a strong or impassioned enunciation and crystal clarity. Her intonations often remind me of the late Pay Lee - the soul that never dies - from Taiwan's SERAPHIM who passed in 2011. Clearly she emulates Sharon Den Adel from WITHIN TEMPTATION, as well as mirroring the magnitude of Floor Jansen. When the harsh vocals are added for effect I am reminded of Japan's BLOOD STAIN CHILD or Cleveland's soulless CELLBOUND but also the early days of the enchanting Kari Rueslåtten from Norway's own THE THIRD AND THE MORTAL. I dare you to dance to the keyboard characterized motion spray of the "Fourth Season" and see if you do not agree.

Power Metal fans that relentlessly support the likes of Lady DORO, BATTLE BEAST, EDGE OF ATTACK, SINERGY, etc. will also be captivated by the lotus like mellifluous melodies of well-crafted musicianship which have plenty of orchestration, as well as modern production. The delightful "Deja Vù" is a mesmerizing epitome' of this.

So breathe in the sweet rhythms, the mellisonant merriment, the bon mot motivated lyrical suggestions, the passion, and the pleasant pageantry. Heavens above! This self-titled release is much stronger than I had anticipated.