Soundchecks Music Review

THE END OF THE WIZARD
WeltenBrand

review by Octavio Ramos Jr

An effective blend of darkwave melancholia and grandiloquent neoclassical structures, The End Of The Wizard is most effective when led by vocalist Dina Zambelli, whose lush croons reminded me of none other than Liv Kristine, who also participated on this effort. Male frontman Ritchie Wenaweser has an effective throat, but he has trouble with the operatic structures and sometimes he simply doesn't have the power or intonation to pull it off.

As for the music, WeltenBrand is impeccable, from Olive Falk's lush keyboard vistas and emotional piano playing to Daniela Nipp's beautiful violin stings. Bassist Christian Sele brings life to the low end, his thumper stepping to the forefront during the quieter moments of tracks such as The French And The Wine, Gipsy Magic, and the standout title track. Drummer Mario Jahnke turns in a restrained performance, his percussive work ideal for this neoclassical approach.

Lyrically, the band takes inspiration from the myths and legends of their home, Liechtenstein. This principality is bordered by Switzerland to the west and Austria to the east. The legends and sagas from this country were influenced by German, Norwegian, and even Roman myths, and thus the band has much material to draw from.

Fans of symphonic gothic metal and darkwave will find much to relish on The End Of The Wizard. The craftsmanship is exemplary, particularly on the opener Bewitched Herd Boys and the closer, Gipsy Magic, both of which strike a balance between the despondent and the upbeat.