Rioghan - 2023 - Covers III [mini-review]

(13:57; Inverse Records)



















Finland based artist Rioghan are out with the EP "Covers III", where three songs by other artists have been given an alternative take. The opening 'Toxic' is transformed into a more exotic sounding metal tune in this guise, and while not as progressive as Marillion's classic take on the song (nor as aggressive as Trollfest's version) I think this version should sit well with a progressive music interested audience. Second track 'Sweet Death' is a song that is unknown to me, but a song that sounds achingly familiar nonetheless. And this blend of dark post-punk and progressive metal is quite alluring in its own right, a dark song with lots of nerve, tension and dripping with atmosphere. The concluding ballad 'Lethean' is pulled from the back catalogue of the band Katatonia, and wraps up this EP in a soft, elegant and suitably charming manner. And while 'Sweet Death' is a song that strikes me as a grade or two more interesting than the other two, I would say that this is an EP that is worth a listen in general, and should be a fun experience for those who enjoy songs that have been given a bit of a progressive makeover.

Olav "Progmessor" Björnsen, December 2023

Links:
https://www.facebook.com/rioghandarcy
https://www.inverse.fi/

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