Venustra

Today, the use of the term ‘Opera Rock’ almost disappeared from the scene. It was heavily used during the end of the 60’s and the entire 70’s to point for conceptual albums (THE WHO’s “Tommy” is a fine example) or soundtracks for films (as in the case of “Jesus Christ Superstar”), and can be used as a theatrical musical soundtrack (“Tommy” became such thing during the 90’s). Of course some bands used the concept since then, but it’s a rare thing. And the North American quartet VENUSTRA (from Austin, TX) is using it again, but our focus is their latest release, “Candy Apples Custom Made”.

Of course the listener can find theatrical elements on the band’s songs, but their music is primarily modern and fresh, bearing a heavy dose of aggressiveness and weight, being distant from the classic model. It could be said as an eclectic form of modern Metal/Rock bands as ALTER BRIDGE, but even more experimental and filled with so many influences that turn the classification of their work in a hard work. The best to do: heard and enjoy the songs, because their work is really very good. The sound quality is good, done in a modern and fresh way, what means that it’s loud and clean for the total understanding of what the quartet is up to. But the strength and heavy weight of their music is amazing, along with a crushing aggressiveness. Yes, it’s a very good work, besides the tunes for the drums could be better.

All the songs are really good and can offer a very good time for those who hear it, but the hypnotic aggressiveness of “Ringmaster” (very good guitar and vocals) and “Step Right Up!”, the introspective and filled with an horror aesthetics “Shelved”, the abrasive slow tempos of “Charivari” (the solid work of bass guitar and drums creates the right rhythm for a theatrical sample of the vocals) and of “Candy Butcher”, and the short and catchy “Misery Theatre” (some Gothic Rock influences can be heard) are the ones for a first time in their musical work.

Of course, that to be an Opera Rock album by itself doesn’t justify a thing, but “Candy Apples Custom Made” really is impressive. And VENUSTRA shows itself as another very good name from the North American scene.

Musicianship: 8
Songwriting: 9
Memorability: 8
Production: 7 - Metal Temple

Venustra - May, I
Release Date: February 06, 2021
Length: 08:52 (12:01)
Genre: Gothic Metal / Alternative Metal
Origin: Austin, TX, USA

"May, I" is a two-track (Bandcamp), respectively three-track (Spotify) single by Austin's Venustra. The title track was inspired by the film "May", a psycho thriller by Lucky McKee, starring Angela Bettis. Further tracks are "Step Right up! (Adoration Destroyed Remixx)" and the bonus track "Los Ageless" (only on Spotify).
Venustra was founded by Texan artist Synderalla Nervosa. The band is constantly releasing brachial music full of horror and darkness.
Even if you have not watched the film, the song is inspired by, you can easily feel the thrill of protagonist May Kennedy's dark desires. "May, I" is a brutal Alternative Metal piece, defined by sonic darkness, brachial riffs, and violent rhythms. The soundscapes spread darkness, horror, and gore, as Venustra combines Alternative Metal, Gothic, and Metal Punk. This song has the potential to wreck dancefloors. - MangoRave

A pounding drum beat and scorching riff open ‘Step Right Up!’ to the world and before you know it you’re encapsulated by a hard rock song that’s just a little different to everything else you’re currently listening to.

From the album Candy Apples Custom Made, released earlier in December 2019, ‘Step Right Up!’ is an absolute brute of a song that pulls absolutely no punches. From the very start you’re dragged in like an addiction to the riffs and when the vocals kick in it’s obvious that Venustra are the real deal.

Those vocals almost combine hardcore with death metal and as a result have created a heavy fusion of those respective styles. Add in some groovy bass and heavy drumming and you have a true recipe for success. - HardBeat