Shapes Of Spirits

Ashes to Ashes are currently finishing their second album and they promised it will be "heavier and with a slightly more uptempo direction, mixed in their distinct trademark sound". Let's hope so, because even though this Shapes Of Spirits is a promotional CD and considering it was their first shot (self financed), I can easily imagine the band grew up. I also hope their new album will follow the direction taken on Castle In The Air (third song). This is a fantastic uptempo song, full of melodies (guitars & vocals) and the chorus is excellent. Shades Of Spirits contains many classical elements combined with typical melodic metal and reminds me sometimes Nightwish. Ashes To Ashes are focused on atmosphere and haunting melodies. I liked the structures of the songs, while the production of the album adds to the creation of the atmosphere in it's own way. An emotional album that targets the heart and the mind of the listener, even though there is too many "breaks and quiet moments" for my taste. Good start that needs to be confirmed with the next album. They have signed with DVS Records and you can check out http://atoa.net for more info.