I'm always enthusiastic when I hear about a new Van Canto album, I know many consider them only a gimmicky band, but I like them a lot. They have a good vibe, put a smile on my face and some of their collaborations are really really awesome (Hansi for the win). But this album I'm not feeling it. It sounds like they're just going through the works and have zero interest towards their music and zero joy of singing, which to me is probably the most off-putting thing when it comes to music. Even mediocre music can be made better by the artist's enthusiasm and not even Opeth- like level of compositions can be saved by a lack of honesty and of caring. Maybe Sly leaving affected them in terms of songwriting or general mood (since he did seem like the most cheerful and carefree guy in the band, maybe he was the motor behind their attitude). But I have to say that as far as vocal skills go, I dig the new guy, Hagen. He has a raspy deep voice and he seems rather versatile.
