Skandinavia - Skandinavia

  by Benjamin Howarth

published: 24 / 1 / 2005

Label: Global Warming
Format: CD

intro

Dull and uninspiring hard rock on debut album from Skandinavia, the new band of Eliza Newman, the former frontwoman with long forgotten melody Maker favourites Bellatrix

Although long forgotten by most, I had a soft spot for Bellatrix, who were Melody Maker favourites just before that paper closed down. They had a great single called ‘The Girl With The Sparkling Eyes’, which neatly captured some bubbly pop energy and had a great melody. They , however, never quite made it and evidently broke up. This is the debut release for their singer Eliza Newman’s new project, but it is nowhere near as good. She has decided to pitch herself in the hard rock camp, and though there are some good melodies, they are all but drowned out by the metallic guitars. This is a very boring record, and a big let down. The only noteworthy moments are when Eliza’s band strip themselves back to being mere accompanists for her strong voice. I wouldn’t recommend this at all.

Track Listing:-