Released in 2004, this self-titled EP is the first release from melodic thrash metal outfit Chaoswave. Although as yet virtually unknown in the UK, they are apparently causing quite a stir in the underground metal scene of their native Italy, and recently signed a deal with Dutch record label “DVS”, which in the past has given us great bands such as INTO ETERNITY and WOLVERINE. Judging from the quality of this disc, Chaoswave are far more than just another piece of genre-straddling metal exotica.

This 4-track EP kicks off with meaty (yet surprisingly clean) guitar riffs and frantic drumming, which wouldn't sound out of place in a death metal band. Yet, when the vocals kick in, rather than incomprehensible growling, one hears the lilting, hypnotic voice of Giorgia Fadda, who is swiftly joined by Fabio Carta. The two singers sound excellent together, harmonising beautifully. By teaming the viscous thrash/death-influenced guitars and drums with a hefty dollop of melody, and clean vocals, Chaoswave succeed in creating an uncompromisingly heavy, but very accessible, sound. Tracks like "Swept Away" (available as a free download from their site) perfectly capture this blend of musical styles - which, while rather formulaic on paper (or, more accurately, computer screen) it ensures Chaoswave stand out from the crowds of female-fronted melodic metal bands clamouring for your attention.

There are few aspects of this EP that can really be faulted - songs are complex and well written, the production is slick – if anything the lyrics are the only slight let-down. They're neither laughably bad (which, as many power metal bands prove, can be a positive thing...), nor remarkably good. They're merely functional. While this is a minor issue, it's frustrating, particularly as the rest of the EP is of such high quality. Hopefully the band will spend a bit more time on this aspect of the songs before the release of their first album, expected towards the end of the year.

But overall, a promising debut. Despite the somewhat average lyrics, this EP is really something. The band clearly have the skill as composers (if not poets...) to match their (considerable) technical ability, and it shows. Although it's a bit of a hassle to get hold of, this disc is well worth purchasing, and is a great appetiser to keep you going until their album arrives.

Standout Tracks:  Hate Create, Swept Away.

Overall Score:   8 /10