There is no surprise when you discover I have a major dislike for female vocals within metal, I admit there is a time and place for female vocals and for me personally Death metal isn’t one of those places. But Three Orakle has showed me that even my opinion is open for change. Thee Orakle a band from Portugal has created an album consisting of many influences, taking us from death to doom and various locations in between. Smooth Comforts False has the beautiful element of progression and that “something a bit different” that I over the past few months have come to adore and only seems to be found with bands via Viral Propaganda.
Rather than making a big deal about having a female vocalist Thee Orakle use Micaela Cardoso’s talents to compliment Pedro Silva’s vocals, Micaela’s vocals are smooth and powerful which is the perfect accompaniment to Pedro’s grimy and raspy screams that wouldn’t go amiss in black metal. Team both of these with guitars from Ricardo Pinheiro that dance from all out death metal to a silky jazz sound with so many quirky flourishes like the use of harmonics in ‘Faraway Embrace’ you cannot help but be impressed, Smooth Comforts False does not lack on the guitar solos either and they allow a momentary break from the cacophony of sounds that are in abundance on Smooth Comforts False. You have keyboards that create the Gothic portion but also allow for the experimental aspect which only generates more intensity. Frederico Lopes is a drummer who shows that there is more to speed than blast beats and takes full advantage of every piece of his kit, flowing smoothly together with the bass from Daniel Almeida. So when you create one winning combination what do you do next? You bring in some musical guests of course: on Smooth Comforts False you have guest vocals from: Marco Benevento (The Foreshadowing) and Adolfo Luxuria Cannibal (Mao Morta), also you have Yossi Sassi Sa’aron from Orphaned Land playing Bouzouki (a Greek lute of sorts) as well as guest trumpeter and saxophonist.
Over all I fully enjoyed, Smooth Comforts False is very fluid and stunning, and a perfect showcase for the talents of Thee Orakle.
01. Faraway Embrace
02. Psi-drama
03. Mysterious Hours
04. Foretoken
05. Evil Dreams
06. Winter Threat
07. The Bride Of The River Flowing
08. Hopefulness
09. Rescue Of Mind
