From Germany, we have seen many good things; including RAMMSTEIN, bratwurst and it is even the birthplace of yours truly. But to be honest, I can say, BLACKLANDS is one of the first things I have loved about Germany in a long time! To call Moja Nardelli’s voice is amazing is very much understating her talent.
To self-release an album all on your own is not the easiest, and sometimes not the wisest, decision that a band could make. But in the case of "A New Dawn", no mistake has been made. The guitar solos are nothing short of awe-inspiring as they don’t feel like show stealers, but enhancers to the emotion of songs such as “Love Will Never Die”. This track has a special place in my heart. All the songs on this album are astounding, but this is like that one wedding dress in a store of breathtaking dresses. It is the one the bride lays her eyes on and says, “Yes, that…that is the one!” For me, this is the perfect track on this remarkable recording.
Moja Nardelli and Michael Stockschlager singing together is by far my favorite duet act. Though I fully enjoyed NIGHTWISH’s Marco and Tarja / Marco and Annette, Moja and Michael have blown them completely out of the water. They do not seem to fight for ‘Hey this is me’ instead it is a give and take. They are like two perfect pieces to a melodic puzzle.
I definitely enjoyed listening to "A New Dawn" by BLACKLANDS. I hope they have a lengthy successful career. And I will enjoy watching them along the way! This band has definitely made it into my list of “must haves”. I believe anyone who sits down and truly listens to this album would agree.
Tracklist:
1. Cold Embraces 2. Dance of the Witches 3. A New Dawn 4. Ocean of Tears 5. Remember Your Time 6. I Can Hear Your Heart 7. Floating Pictures 8. Love Will Never Die 9. Memories 10. Take 11. Powerplay 12. The Me
Lineup:
Moja Nardelli - Vocals Thomas Kelleners - Drums Manfred Reinecke - Keyboards Michael Stockschlager - Guitars and Vocals Rudiger Sartingen - Bass