"India" CD by Xandria

by Lothar Landt (July 2005) One used to say that it's the thrid album that decides upon break it or make. Today, only few bands get so far. With Xandria, the long breath was worth it because the new longplayer is simply fantastic. I had always seen them as another band following the Nightwish/Within Temptation-trails - now I have to change my mind! The 12 songs on "India" are excellent. Xandria have developed their own style in which melody and heaviness found the perfect balance. Already the opener, "India" follows the title and develops an oriental flair, supported by driving forward drums and some breaks. Here, singer Lisa is a bit more opera like than in some other songs. Also in the succeeding "Now & forever", the bombast doesn't water the riffs. "In love with the darkness" is the first single of the album and starts with a calm intro before it skilfully integrates all trademarks. Musically, this album could definitely catapult Xandria to the top of the genre because the songs are really great. I can only hope that the fans will realize that, too and that this band doesn't drown in the mass of releases. (Lothar Landt - July 2005)