WITHIN TEMPTATION, NIGHTWISH, LEAVES' EYES Members Featured On DELAIN Debut
September 14, 2006DELAIN, the Dutch gothic rock project founded by ex-WITHIN TEMPTATION keyboardist Martijn Westerholt (brother of WITHIN TEMPTATION's Robert Westerholt),has just released its debut album, "Lucidity", via Roadrunner Records. In addition to Martijn Westerholt and Charlotte Wessels (vocals),the CD features guest appearances by the following musicians:
Jan Yrlund (ex-LACRIMOSA) - Guitars
Ariën van Weesenbeek (GOD DETHRONED) - Drums
Ad Sluijter (EPICA)
George Oosterhoek (ex-ORPHANAGE)
Guus Eikens (ex-ORPHANAGE)
Sharon Den Adel (WITHIN TEMPTATION)
Marco Hietala (NIGHTWISH)
Liv Kristine (LEAVES' EYES)
DELAIN is an exceptional band because of its project-like set-up. The many musicians and vocalists on "Lucidity" have all left their mark on the music. "I wanted to encourage interaction between the different musicians," says Martijn. But despite his prominent role, he provided enough room for personal contributions. "I think it is important to create a positive vibe in the studio. I had a final say with regard to the overall sound, but I made sure my ego did not get in the way of the best final result."
Despite the fact that DELAIN is, first and foremost, a project, Martijn and the talented Charlotte Wessels make up the core of the band. Martijn wrote most of the songs, whereas the characteristic voice of Charlotte gives DELAIN its own identity. Her serene and poppy sound differs from the high opera-like vocals so typical for the gothic genre. Martijn met the then still 18-year-old Charlotte by chance. He wasn't looking for a lead vocalist at the time, so he just asked her to write lyrics and vocal parts. But when he heard her sing a few tracks in the studio, he was so impressed that he immediately asked her to join DELAIN.
"Lucidity" contains some interesting duets: Liv Kristine sings with Marco Hietala on "Day For Ghosts" and with Charlotte on "See Me In Shadow". Sharon den Adel's distinctive voice is a great counterpart to Marco's intense vocals on "No Compliance", whereas the heavy grunts of George Oosthoek combine very well with Charlotte's peaceful voice on a number of other tracks.
For audio samples, visit www.myspace.com/delainmusic.
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