Secret Rule was formed in the beginning of 2014 with the intention to create a special sound with powerful rhythms and catchy melodies. The band is fronted by Angela Di Vincenzo (Kyla Moyl), with lead guitarist Andy Menario (Martiria) bassist Michele Raspanti (Graal) and drummer Nicola Corrente (Enemynside, Stick it out, Starkiller Sound). Keyboards are an essential part of their sound, but yet again on this their third album they have relied on Henrik Klingenberg (Sonata Arctica) to provide these, as opposed to having a full-time member of the band. The sound is a mix between melodic metal and symphonic, well produced and full of hooks, and the use of guests such as singer Ailyn Giménez (ex Sirenia) also make a difference.
I think I like this, but in some ways it is just too polished and almost contrived, and feels quite forumlaic as opposed to something that was created with love and attention. I am sure that this will create quite a storm in certain melodic circles, and there are times when they almost grab a Nightwish feel, but it is too simplistic and doesn’t really have the depth and passion that one would expect from a band such as this. The label itself suggests that the band is for fans of Delain, Serenity, Epica, Within Temptation and Edenbridge, and I am not sure if that is really the case as this does come across as not containing the same depth as those, but if you enjoy female-fronted rock of this style then perhaps it will be far more your style than mine.
