There are very few heavy bands that have female vocalists that I can really get into. I know it sounds totally biased, especially coming from a female, but I’ve always found it hard to take many female ‘metal’ vocalists seriously, mainly because they try to be something they’re not; male! Many female singers that play in a band otherwise comprised of guys tend to downplay their female qualities vocally in an attempt to come off tougher. This is a shame.
Now, before you attack me, or dismiss this as a predictable review – please note that there are many, many female-fronted bands out there that I do admire, enjoy, and listen to on a very regular basis. Guano Apes just so happens to be one of them. And I promise not to focus on the fact that there is a ‘chick’ in this band. But it must be said, that “Proud Like A God” (SuperSonic Records/RCA) not only spotlights and flatters the sheer femininity of Sandra‘s voice, but it reminds you of that added touch which is indeed a welcome softness to the typical hard edges of most new metal out there today. She is also the sole lyricist which adds the poetic quality to the heaviness of the songs on this CD.
“Proud Like A God” is one bad ass collection of material. “Lords of the Boards” is one of the coolest songs I’ve heard in a long time. The technology is applied with a light coat, the guitar work is silky-smooth, and Sandra shadows fellow newcomers, Kittie, vocally on this one. It’s definitely my favorite track on the CD. “Open Your Eyes” is the one receiving the national radio acceptance currently. It’s a killer song, too. What a surprise that KROQ actually plays this one.
I highly recommend Guano Apes as an addition to your CD collections. I doubt that this one will gather any dust. Mine is already looking pretty beat up and I’ve only had it for a week. Be sure to play it in your CD-rom drive for added surprises, too. Enjoy!
Lesa Pence
