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NAIO SSAION ‘Out Loud’ Napalm Records(2005)
Slovenia is a place with a very rich musical history that goes back 50.000 years, and, as with most central European countries, it became the ideal environment in which classical music was both born and evolved. If you are wondering whether my intentions are to give you a history lesson or, even better, whether I work in a travel agency that promotes trips to this country, the answer is no. I just though that this quite unusual intro would give you a background to the cultural environment in which Naio Ssaion were "born", and explain a few things about their musical direction.
Naio Ssaion is a relatively new band, whose music can be described as Pop with many Goth and classical music influences. Formed in 2003, the sextet soon started working on compositions which one year later were featured in their debut album "Numedia". Sung only in Slovenian, "Numedia" was obviously targeting the local market, but after having gained the attention of the international music press by opening for Pink in Austria, a change of plans was decided. After signing a contract with Austrian label Napalm Records, Naio Ssaion prepared thirteen new compositions which are now featured in the band's second release "Out Loud".
Straight to the point: Naio Ssaion's music is really not my cup of tea, but I would have no problem having them as background music in a club, which I assume is the natural environment for this type of music. Judging from the album cover, Barbara (vocals) and Rok (violin) are the main features of the band's music, but, unfortunately, Rok's impressive violin skills are quite often undermined by Barbara's average vocals. The songs are quite catchy, and capable of attracting a varied audience, but for someone with my music taste, only the slightly heavier opening track "Static" and the brilliantly performed classical theme of "Bow Link in E Minor" managed to convince me of the band's real capabilities.
I believe that "Out Loud" is the kind of album that will create various reactions, and I am quite intrigued to check on other reviews in the near future. As for you, listen to this album and judge for yourselves.
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Review by John Stefanis
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