The origins of Asrai date back to the mid '80s. They finally released their debut in 1997, and it took until 2004 for their second release. The Dutch gothic metal band is back with only their third album.
Pearls In Dirt is melodic and atmsopheric. The songs have layers of keyboards that create the gothic feel. Some tracks are slow and somber, others faster and more guitar driven. There are hooks aplenty and several memorable songs.
Margriet is Asrai's vocalist, and she sings with a clear alto that has a great tone and a lot of emotion. She has a pop sensibility and style that makes the songs warmer and more inviting. There are so many female fronted gothic metal bands now that it's hard to keep track of them, but if you're a fan of groups like Lacuna Coil and Evanescence, Asrai may be right up your alley.
