Blinded Rain
Destination Unknown Fireburn Records

by Derric Miller
Staff Writer

Comments: From Helsinki comes another ridiculously talented metal band, Blinded Rain. Their music is akin to what their countrymen H.I.M. create, but it’s heavier, and leans closer to Type O’ Negative at times due to the Sabbathy guitar rhythms. While just a three-man act, Blinded Rain covers all bases with Kaide playing guitars and keyboards while providing lead vocals; Gunther playing bass; and Leonard slaying the drums. Reviews from Europe are already praising this band, and they should do just as well Stateside, if not better.

Eerie keys and a massive riff open the album on “Sandcastle Star,” and the band has become heavier on each of their releases. Vocally, Kaide sings with a lower register, throaty and pure, much like H.I.M. Kaide’s guitar leads are searing, and the song builds momentum all the way through, as the keys make you feel like you are listening to the soundtrack of a horror movie. Kaide is an impressive musician, especially hearing the frantic guitar solo accompany the equally pummeling keyboard solo.

“In the Black Veil of Twilight” has a Power Metal groove to it, especially with the band singing “Demons! Demons!” to start the track. The female backing vocals from Kaisa Saari add an atmospheric and serenely melodic element to the song. The chorus is massive and almost orchestral. This is completely different than the opening song but just as good, if not better.

You’ll get a melodious keyboard composition on “Last Dance ‘Til Dawn.” Kaide’s vocals shine, and especially in Europe, this could be a Top 10 hit for the band. Europeans seem to understand that being able to carry a tune is a talent, not something to scoff at.

“The Only Truth” is another commendable track on Destination Unknown. This is one of the few times where Kaide stretches his vocals to the limit, both on the gruff and the higher end. Although a bit more chaotic than the other tracks, it’s still polished. It’s really the pacing of the chorus that amazes here, with a build-up and vocal key change that allows Kaide to nearly scream, except, he’s always in control of his vocals and never ruins a note on the entire CD.

Another hit song for Blinded Rain could be “Romance the Cruelty.” It may be a tad unfair to keep comparing them to H.I.M., but it’s not like The 69 Eyes have a completely different vocal style either. Regardless, all three bands are immensely talented, although in the same vocal arena. This is another one of those tracks where Saari adds a beautiful atmosphere to the song with her adept vocals.

So, Finland can keep claiming bragging rights as the country per capita with the best bands and musicians, because Blinded Rain is another superior group. Whatever’s in the frozen rainwater in Finland, everyone should be lucky enough to drink it.

www.myspace.com/blindedrain

Track Listing:
Sandcastle Star
Not Your Hero
In the Black Veil of Twilight
Last Dance ‘Til Dawn
Fragile
Queen of Silence
The Only Truth
Insane
Romance in the Cruelty
Goodbye the Dreamer

Hardrock Haven rating: 8/10