The East Village Opera Company - Self Titled
CD Info
2005
Decca Records
12 Tracks
English/French/Italian Lyrics
Ever since discovering Nightwish back in 2005, I’ve always had a fascination between mixing opera with rock/metal. It was like a sound I’ve never heard before, but one that I really enjoyed. After getting into that, I went to listen to some actual Opera arias (I’ve never had an interest in opera prior to discovering Nightwish). I did enjoy them, though I’ve always wondered what these Opera arias would actually sound like if it were mixed with rock or metal. Then I discovered The East Village Opera Company. Their self titled album surely gave me what I was looking for!
The East Village Opera company is a group of many people who reinterpret many of the most famous Opera arias by adding some rock to the mix. The group has two singers: Tyley Ross (male vocals) and AnnMarie Milazzo (female vocals). They both have really great vocals—though neither sings operatically. Of the two, I was most impressed by AnnMarie’s performances on this album, though, to be sure, Tyley is quite good as well. As for the songs, it’s basically many of the most well known and adored Opera arias out there: "Habanera", "La Donna È Mobile", "Nessun Dorma", and "Flower Duet" just to name a few. The arrangements for these songs are some of the cleverest arrangements I’ve heard, as far as covering a song is concerned. Each song, though definitely recognizable, have a somewhat different flavor than the original is concerned—and it works! Also, the group occasionally adds lyrics to the aria (sure to annoy some people). Though, I liked what they added.
Of the covers on this album, the two most successful arrangements and performances are "Habanera" and "What I Am Laid In Earth". The former is really the most interesting version of "Habanera" I’ve ever heard—I’m sure there are no other versions like this out there! AnnMarie’s vocals on this song give it a great edge as well. "When I Am Laid in Earth" has this great intensity I’ve never heard in this song before. Parts of this song are the questest moments on this album, while other parts are the heaviest. Tyley’s performance is also excellent during this song. The "Flower Duet" with the dual intertwining vocals, "O Mio Babbino Caro" with its sensuality (also sung by a male), and the rocking "La Donna È Mobile" are other highlights on this album.
The only warning I want to give is, if you’re an opera purest, you will probably hate this album. The group definitely does not follow the traditional path in performing these arias. But, on the other hand, if you’ve never enjoyed opera, there is definitely a chance for you to enjoy this album. I’ve heard someone call this album a "opera album for those who hate opera", and I definitely agree with that! Recommended for those who don’t mind a little rock in their Opera.
8.5 / 10
