Say hello to Shadowside, a band who is ready to kick your ass now, and take names later. Shadowside is from Brazil, and like many of the metal bands that come out of Brazil, is filled with loads of heavy riffage and a top notch production. The first thing I'd like to say about this band is the female vocals which are handled by Dani Nolden. In a time when the whole gothic operatic female voice is oversaturating the Metal scene, Dani brings us back to the metal roots when bands like Warlock had Doro Pesch. Dani's voice is so powerful, you will think at times that you are hearing a male singer! Absolutely amazing that a woman can sing with this much melody, and power at the same time. The CD starts off with "Enter The Shadow" a very short intro that sets us up for the first metal blistering uptempo doublebass drumming tune of "Vampire Hunter". My favorite track off the disc comes next which is "Highlight" a Metal anthem that once you hear, will be stuck in your head like glue, and having you tapping your foot the whole way! One thing I really love about this disc is the atmospheric keyboards that can be found sprinkled throughout. Dani's voice never loses a beat, Raphael Mattos' blistering guitar work never lets up, and Fabio Buitvidas' drums will have you banging your head like crazy! If you have the USA version from Chavis Records you'll be treated to a cover of Dio's "Rainbow In the Dark". From start to finish this is nothing but pure metal attitude!

It's hard to believe that this is a debut album from Shadowside. Everything you want in a Melodic Metal band is here as stated above. If you're not a fan of female vocals, give Dani a chance as she is no ordinary female metal singer! I found only one song on "Theatre Of Shadows" that really didnt do much for me, which is the ONLY thing from keeping this record from being a perfect 10. Shadowside is already working on album number 2, and if its anything like this, fans will be in for a special treat! So what are you waiting for? Its time to go become a "Vampire Hunter"! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

Reviewed by The Metal Madman

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