TV Times

TV Times

Faro fellow
Based in Germany but having something of an international flavour, Faro is an exciting new melodic rock project fronted by Sri Lankan born vocalist Chitral ‘Chitty’ Somapala. Somapala, as everyone remembers, was a member of ‘Friends’, who are based in Germany too.

He after leaving Friends used to front progressive metal worriors’ ‘Avolaon’, one of the most exciting and innovative bands on that particular scene in Germany. Indeed, if you’re a fan of classy melodic progressive metal, their last two albums - 98’s ‘Vision Eden’, and 2000’s ‘Eurasia’ - are absolutely essential.

But back to the job in hand, Avalon are on semi-permanent hold, and with Faro, Somapala has moved into an altogether more traditional hard rock vein, albeit hard rock with a stimulating twist. Produced by Markus Teske (Vanden Plas, Consortium Project) and their debut album ‘Dawn of Forever’ highlights a diverse and wide ranging set of influences from right across the hard rock spectrum.

“That’s before we even get to the subtle little nuances imported from other forms of music! And whilst in many cases such a bold approach can work against a new band, in the case of Faro, everything fits together beautifully to create a refreshingly different, yet agreeably familiar, take on the classic melodic rock theme,’’ Chitty said.

Long-standing fans of Avalon already know Somapala’s credentials as a vocalist are first rate, and with ‘Dawn of Forever’ he makes the transition from progressive metal to melodic rock with consummate ease - his passionate, soul drenched voice a real highlight from beginning to end. Whether it’s the crunching rifts of ‘Living In Extremes’ or ‘You’re On The Run’, or the heartfelt emotion of ‘Coast To Coast’, ‘Dawn Of Forever’ delivers every time.

The playing is spot on, the hooks come thick and fast, and the songs have a timeless quality which never seems to date. With much of the current crop melodic rock bands sticking to the same tried and tested formula, Faro offers a remarkably vibrant and invigorating alternative.

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