Without a Webpage or much on their Facebook page, there was very little information I could garner about the band titled YUREI. Based in Toronto, Ontario, I believe this is Gabriel's second independent release. "Saudade" contains eight tracks. "Prelude" is a short opening instrumental, setting a mood of peace and tranquility with soft piano notes. "Continue" opens with a heavy keyboard presence and some meter shifting, reminding me of the composer OWANE. The sound is fascinating. Guitars dance with drums and bass, at times in perfect syncopation while other times crashing into one another and causing a ripple effect. One thing is for sure-this guy is talented.

"Risen" features Poh Hock (REPLACIRE) on guitar. It opens slowly and cautiously before that lead comes in and brings rays of sun with it. Simply beautiful, and very well composed. The rhythm guitars bring the punch and heavy accents while the lead breathes over top. "Memoria" opens with charming piano notes that give way to the main riff and sound. The rhythm guitars are heavy and punchy while the leads flow with an energy that is hard to describe. "Anima" features Evan Sammons; a session drummer. It again features a heavy rhythm section with light and airy leads. Sammons really does a nice job on here keeping time...it's a mix of aggressive moments with softer moments. The guitar work is amazing as well and does a nice job of augmenting the overall sound.

"Insomnium IV. Saudade" is another shorter track featuring smooth and mellow guitar tones that builds throughout and then fades away ever so gently. "Dark Matter" features Scott Carstairs (FALLUJAH) and it has some really dazzling guitar work and that distinct feeling of the band combined with YUREI's signature sound. The rhythm section is absolutely bruising, knocking you around like a prized fighter. But the ambient moments are a nice touch as well, where the bass guitar dances around with the drums in well-choreographed routine. "Forest of Waters" closes the album, with a groovy rhythm established from the start. The guitars dance around in synergy before a more atmospheric moments is established. It stops enough for you to pause and look around and take in the beauty of the moment. But the strong rhythm soon returns, along with some fantastic leads. It ends in a cinematic moment of sublimity.

This was a really strong album. YUREI's compositions are very well thought out, and the synergy that develops in the band is amazing. He has some unique chord structures, and some fun guest musicians, making the album as a whole very easy to listen to and enjoy. Obviously talented, "Saudade" shows a nice combination of heavy rhythmic accents and ambient moments of bliss that will be sure to please the listener.