Evolving as a group since their beginnings in the early 2000’s, Swiss act SoulLine has released five full-length albums to date across various domestic and European label platforms – occasionally venturing the DIY route when necessary. Screaming Eyes is their sixth platter and first for Massacre Records, containing eight original tracks, one cover, and two bonus cuts for the digipack CD consumers. The band delivers a groovy brand of melodic death metal – setting the listener on a focused journey that has a very down to earth, meat and potatoes feel over the course of the record.
The cultural accents that prop up in terms of specific instrumental progressions allow for some spirited lead breaks and exciting fill sequences – best illustrated with “Dragonfly” that includes a rhythmic ‘uh ah’ background vocals to encourage audience chanting almost like pirates at sea. Somber keyboards and thoughtful melodies bring “Against Myself” into entertaining semi-power ballad horizons, the screams of Gabriele Gianora conjuring razor blade toughness during the concluding sequence. Occasional leftfield turns into alternative nuances make for awkward style clashes – “Stay with You” probably the worst offender, its emo-oriented verses not exactly convincing against the twin guitar runs and mid-tempo groove riffs. SoulLine possess a mix of American modern influences (Trivium, Lamb of God) against Scandinavian reference points (In Flames, Dark Tranquillity) – placing the occasional blast beat or clean vocal to break up the normal heavy riffs, harsh vocals, and requisite pounding tempos that keep the tunes flowing. Arising from the lows of life into a heroic human being, the lyrics will take the listener on a personal story feel – even with the heavier take on the Paradise Lost cover “Say Just Words” placed in the middle of the record.
Adequate songwriting and commendable performances make for a solid yet not spectacular showing for a veteran outfit like SoulLine. Screaming Eyes has its entertaining moments, enough to hopefully fuel these musicians for an even stronger, more original outing the next go around.