Kauan - _Lumikuuro_
(Solitude Productions / Bad Mood Man, 2007)
by: Quentin Kalis (7 out of 10)
I initially thought that newcomers Kauan were from Suomi, a logical conclusion derived from their use of Finnish, but they are a Russian entity. Perhaps I should have expected that, as they have defied all other expectations.

Kauan can be considered as a doom band, but their foothold in the genre is tentative, and doom is merely a springboard for exploring other, more eclectic and challenging territories. The album is divided into two halves: the first is the 'metal' half, and songs are constructed around heavy yet mesmerizing guitar tones, whilst the second half showcases 'non-metal' and consists of just two songs. However, they are the undisputed highlights and allow Kauan to exhibit some of their most sublime melodies. There is a nod to the neofolk leanings of Finns Tenhi and a slight urban edge provided by a jazzy undercurrent, but this is subsumed by the dominant pastoral evocation. The fragile beauty is not limited to the second half and permeates the entire album, but the last few numbers allow it to come to fruition.

This is far from perfect; some of the songs could be edited, and the atmosphere falters on occasion. They have the vision, the skill and melodies -- all that is needed now is experience, and only time can provide that.

Contact: http://www.myspace.com/kauanmusic

(article published 15/3/2008)

12/24/2009 M Dolson 6.5 Kauan - Aava Tuulen Maa
5/5/2009 Q Kalis 8 Kauan - Tietaajan Laulu

