I know for a fact that the majority of my fellow journalists find writing reviews for demo releases as one of their least satisfying tasks. I have to admit that there were a few times when I also felt less that happy in having to review some of these attempts, to which even the world "experiment" feels less than applicable or accurate as a reference, yet, that is not always the case. You see, every once in a while, I seem to come across bands whose work involves plenty of passion, skill and artistic vision - bands like Scar Of The Sun.

There are not many things about the history of this trio that one can say, as they have been around only for the last two years. The two people who are responsible for bringing this project together are vocalist Terry and axeman Stam Von Lessen, who, apart from sharing their influences from genres as diverse as doom and gothic metal, were also quite knowledgeable as far as sound engineering is concerned. The band's line up was completed with the introduction of Achilleas behind the drums, and soon the first ideas came to life - ideas which led to the creation of this three-track demo CD.

I have to admit that the artwork which the quite talented drummer created for this release was the first thing that really grabbed my attention, and that is quite natural seeing as, not only did he do a great job, but he was also the person responsible for the creation of Dark Tranquillity's "Monochromatic Stains" video a few years ago. In terms of music, this release presents a variety of different influences, with modern Swedish and Goth metal being the most obvious of all. "Disposable", the opening track of this album, is a pretty catchy and straight forward composition, based on simple melodic patterns, whose sound and attitude resembles those of late Paradise Lost. Even though the drums sound quite up front and the ending guitar theme/solo is not the most fitting as far as I'm concerned, the song becomes memorable from the first few spins and wins some really positive impressions.

With "Burn The Memory", the band becomes slightly heavier and more adventurous with respect to the song structure. The main riff has a certain "Phantom of The Opera" (the musical) dramatic feel into it, and brings out a totally different side of the band, which sounds more doomy and closer to the spirit of Katatonia. Keyboards play a very important part in creating a nice atmosphere in the song without taking a leading role, and that allows the guitars to invest either in heavy riffs or some really impressive melodic themes, which add to the song's overall effect. Finally, "I Lost" is the heaviest and most epic-sounding composition of the album, whose constant changes in rhythmical pattern and mood allows it to remain interesting throughout its seven and a half minute duration.

Ladies and Gentlemen, there are not many bands around that manage to sound so professional and coherent in their first ever demo, and that alone explains why I am so impressed by this release. It is true that Scar Of The Sun are not presenting us with anything extremely innovative here, and there is still some work to be done in terms of creating their own sound. On the other hand, it is more than obvious that these three guys have all the skills needed in order to make a successful career in the future...somehow I find it difficult to imagine them being without a contract in the near future!

****

Review by John Stefanis