The cover of the Greek band JULIAN´S LULLABY looks more like classic orchestral sound with a dose of kitsch. So I was initially surprised by what the label STF Records had sent me, as it is primarily known for releases in the metal genre.
With JULIAN´S LULLABY, the label has signed a Greek band, which I find quite exotic since I am hardly aware of any metal bands from Greece that also cater to a genre that is almost solely carried by bands like Nightwish in these times: Symphonic Metal.
The Greeks start off quite folkishly, presenting two female singers right away. For a while, it almost sounds like medieval metal. However, this path is gradually abandoned. The band prefers to take the route that combines dreamy, longing, and romantic lyrics with a complex musical arrangement. The two singers do their job very well, although at times they reach heights that can get a bit annoying over time. It also sounds somewhat artificial here and there, but that is part of the band's style. The whole thing is underscored by a substantial drum sound, which has some reserves of power that unfortunately only rarely come to the fore. However, when the drummer is in the spotlight, you can sense the potential behind it.
The arrangements are quite elaborate and varied, so one cannot simply speak of a Nightwish clone here, but rather of the band's own style.
This is also the band's greatest strength. They have managed to develop their own style on this album without turning their back on the classic genre. The sound of JULIAN´S LULLABY should appeal to every romantic metalhead and, of course, to every romantic metalhead as well. And aren’t we all romantics deep in our hearts?
