Sanctum Incendia
Sanctum Incendia are a young Christian Metal band from Inverness. Their myspace says they are an “unusual fusion that you can’t really classify 100%, but it works.” Well, we’re about to find out: guitar, vocals and “looking scary” – Ben Smith; vocals – Rhianna Bain; keyboards – Matthew Thornton; drums – Fraser Greenwood.
Sanctum Incendia - Redemption in Blood
This song starts with an interesting piano intro and moves into an almost Evanescence-like theme with guitar and female vocals. Male vocals join in creating an intriguing blend, somewhat similar to H.I.M’s version of Don’t Fear the Reaper. The lyrics, while not to my taste, did not detract from the music as happens with many Christian bands. However, I became increasingly frustrated by the little hints of a build-up followed every time by an anticlimax. On top of this their instrumental skills and timing could do with some work.
Sanctum Incendia - Flickering Flame
First off it’s worth mentioning that this song clocks up a whopping 7:30 min. Perhaps this wouldn’t seem so long, but the intro went on far too long and couldn’t really hold my attention. While the guitar worked well with the piano, the vocals could have done with coming in sooner (not at 2:40) and being sung an octave or so lower, which might have also brought a bit more power to them. Their timing slipped noticeably overshadowing what otherwise would have been some interesting rhythms.
Sanctum Incendia - Nothing in Return
A more promising beginning brought in by the organ followed quickly by vocals. The music and lyrics in particular were stronger in this song and probably more relatable for ‘non-Christians’. I would say this was their best song, the only tarnishing quality was the guitar solo, which really began to grate on me, and what was worse it was repeated later in the song. If the solo were rethought, it would make the song much stronger as a whole.
Verdict
The blend of Christian and Metal may at first have been a little confusing, but quickly convinced me to reassess, and by the end it didn’t seem half bad. However, ignoring any issue with the practicalities of playing venues when so young, I would still have to say that if these tracks and their youtube video are anything to go by, it may be a while before its worth checking this band out, especially live. While there is potential in the songs at times, it is never realized, and a large part of this is due to the lack of climax, passion and depth of emotions that serve to satisfy the listener. Perhaps with time to work on their proficiency and confidence this will improve, and a stronger band will emerge.
Links - Sanctum Incendia MySpace
Reviewed by Chantal Reilly
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