Gothic Metal band Katra's second release Beast Within is also their
first with Napalm records. So this Finnish band are yet another female fronted
Gothic Metal group, given the number of these bands it's hard not to make
comparisons and many times you get a sense of deja-vu.
The first half of the album had its moments with tracks like opener "Grail Of
Sahara" which has a nice vibe as does next track "Forgotten Bride", another is
"Swear" a catchy guitar driven track, but the remainder failed to really excite
or grab my attention as much. Performance wise Katra Solopuro vocalist and bands
namesake has an engaging voice well suited to the music that's present. The
other four members are skilled enough to provide the required backing with some
catchy melodies and good balance of guitar and keyboard.
Beast Within while being solid just isn't anything remarkable, I found
it somewhat lacking in overall appeal, Katra are in need of that something
special to make them stand out. If you have to buy everything released in the
Gothic Metal genre grab yourself a copy of this, otherwise have a listen first.
Track Listing:
1. Grail Of Sahara
2. Forgotten Bride
3. Beast Within
4. Fade To Gray
5. Swear
6. Promise Me Everything
7. Mystery
8. Flow
9. Scars In My Heart
10.Storm Rider
11.Mist Of Dawn
12.Kuunpoika