Sleeping Romance – We All Are Shadows

Sleeping Romance
We All Are Shadows
Label: NoCut
Out: October 7th, 2022
Playing time: 41:29

After five years, Sleeping Romance return with a new album. The band was founded in 2013 by multi-instrumentalist Federico Truzzi. Drummer Francesco Zanarelli is still on board from that time. Before that, the band toured under the name Hybrid Resolution since 2009.  They released a self-titled EP in 2011.  Two albums and various singles were produced as Sleeping Romance. “We All Are Shadows” is the third album of the Italians. The first with singer Lina Victoria (Abhcan), who replaced Federica Lanna (Volturian, Malefistum) in 2020.

The intro “Of Shadows And Men” is characterised by voices, a babble of voices as spoken words. Is such an introduction necessary? I don’t think so. But as we all know, tastes are different. But after one and a half minutes it’s over. And “Smoke And Mirrors” rocks lively after an industrial fade in. And you can enjoy the voice of newcomer Lina Victoria. Even heavy riffs and powerful drums can’t push her to the wall. If you listen closely, you will discover the discreet strings in the background. “Call My Name” is a contrast programme, harsh riffs and soulful melodies. But that definitely fits together here. Lina alternates between sensitive singing and a strong rock voice. The melodic chorus offers a further contrast to the hard riffs and the growls. “Ghost Shadows” sounds a bit quieter, but no less powerful. Here, too, it is very melodic in parts.  “Stuck In Your Head” has a strong progressive edge. Whether electronically alienated voice, elf-like singing, strings, powerful riffs. Everything is present here. And despite all its catchiness, this semi-ballad is far from mainstream. “My Own Foe” is much more intense, even aggressive. Although strings can be heard at the beginning. Later, however, it becomes hectic. The singing is really harsh in parts. But contradiction is obviously very important to Sleeping Romance, as the highly melodic vocal parts show. You can quickly sing along with them. Synthie gimmicks can be heard at the beginning of “Resemblance Of Light”. Before the musicians strike again with full force. Want more Pop and catchiness? Then listen to “Haven”. Surely a highlight at concerts. The title track “We All Are Shadows” is the Metal anthem of the album. The ballad-like closing song “Bridge Of Minds” then hardly offers any metal. This Pop attitude is probably the highlight of the Italians’ contrast programme.

“We All Are Shadows” is an extremely varied album. Sleeping Romance skilfully mix different styles into a new organic sound. Whether poppy, bombastic or even dark. Everything can be heard on this album. And Lina Victoria has passed her baptism of fire with flying colours.

Sleeping Romance – Ghost Shadows (Official Video): https://youtu.be/t3azH6jWh3w

Lineup:

Federico Truzzi – Guitars, Synths, Piano & Production
Lina Victoria – Vocals
Marco Cilloni – Bass
Francesco Zanarelli – Drums
Mattia Todescato – Guitars

Track list:

• Of Shadows And Men
• Smoke And Mirrors
• Call My Name
• Ghost Shadows
• Stuck In Your Head
• My Own Foe
• Resemblance Of Light 
• Haven
• We All Are Shadows
• Bridge Of Minds