ANDRY
Skies

This time I will review a debut album, which is always fascinating to me because they’re a bit of a tell-tale about the artist. I’m certainly not expecting masterpieces, but debuts make it very clear if someone has talent or just luck. So, let’s dive into “Skies” by ANDRY.

From the very beginning it’s evident that ANDRY pays homage to the heavy metal legends while boldly carving out her own unique path. With a masterful blend of powerful instrumentals and a distinctive vocal style, “Skies” is full of classical influences. This is not necessary a bad thing, because ANDRY‘s touch is everywhere, especially in the wonderful ballad “My Love”, that could convince even the most skeptical listener.

Her talent is in creating a nostalgic yet fresh experience. From the interesting melodies of “Mistress Of The Night” to the more oriental inspiration of “Black Hole” (which is a brilliant addition) to the passionate and touching “Olive Tree”, ANDRY weaves together the best elements of metal’s illustrious past, infusing each track with a sense of familiarity and excitement. There is truly something for everyone!

ANDRY‘s vocals, however, steal the spotlight, offering a combination of the traditional heavy metal vocal stylings. Her voice is a force to be reckoned with, delivering both raw power and melodic finesse. The juxtaposition of her unique singing style against the backdrop of heavy, electrifying instrumentation adds a layer of complexity to each track.

The production, mixing and mastering quality is very good, allowing the intricate details of each instrument to shine through while maintaining the intensity and energy that define the genre. I would have given a bit more space to the bass in the mixing, but that is just my personal taste. The album’s pacing is however nicely executed, with moments of frenetic energy balanced by more contemplative and atmospheric songs.

For a debut album, ANDRY is surely on the right way. It’s evident that she has not only studied the greats of heavy metal, but also internalized their essence to create something uniquely hers. With “Skies,” ANDRY has announced her arrival in the metal scene with a bold and resounding statement, only time will tell if she will continue to capture our attention.

It’s noteworthy to say that there is still ample room for growth and refinement in her musical journey. ANDRY demonstrates a promising foundation, yet an exploration of more nuanced songwriting and experimentation could further elevate her artistry. “Skies” is anyway a solid starting point, so if you’re a fan of the icons that shaped the history of heavy metal, you’ll definitely enjoy it.

Benedetta Baldin