Delain
Lucidity (Reissue)
Roadrunner Records

Initially formed as a studio-only project by former Within Temptation keyboardist Martijn Westerholt, who was forced to leave the Dutch symphonic metallers due to illness, Delain’s career so far has been one of consistently exceeding expectations. While last year’s ‘April Rain’ brought the band (currently a five piece for live shows, but at the time of their debut, made up of just Westerholt and vocalist Charlotte Wessels) to the attention of many, their debut record ‘Lucidity’ from 2006 showed that they had all the makings of a spectacular act. But, as Roadrunner re-releases the album, does it still hold up to post ‘April Rain’ scrutiny?

In fact, ‘Lucidity’ bears the hallmarks of a veritable symphonic metal supergroup, with Westerholt handling compositional duties, and Wessels lending her beautiful lead vocals, alongside a supporting cast of musicians that includes Liv Christine of Leaves’ Eyes/Theatre Of Tragedy, Sharon Den Adel of Within Temptation, and Marco Hietala of Nighwish/Tarot, who handles bass guitar and male vocals throughout the album. Like many such groups of eminent individuals the result is impressive, but much akin to the exploits of its contributors in sound and style… ‘Lucidity’ is the sound of Westerholt taking those (not so) tentative first steps as lead songwriter and band leader, and allowing his creativity to run riot with an already established musical template.

As such, ‘Lucidity’s eleven tracks are fantastically bombastic, emotionally rich, and evocative, but lack some of the power and anthemic quality that can be found on ‘April Rain’. This is a must hear for fans (who, if we’re being honest, will probably already own it) as a crucial stepping stone in Delain’s career, and an enjoyable record in its own right. Just not for those for whom one Nightwish and one Within Temptation is quite enough.

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Review by Rob Sayce