Elegy is a 6 track EP offering a sample of what's to come in the new Leaves' Eyes album 'Vinland Saga' due 30th May. It consists of 2 versions of 'Elegy' (single and album version), 3 non-album tracks and a demo track. Add to this the lovely artwork and the initial impression is that it's a very nice package.

The EP opens with the two best tracks - title track 'Elegy' is a very enjoyable slice of gothic metal, a fast paced, guitar heavy track with singer Liv Kristine's vocals soaring above. This is followed by non-album track 'Senses Capture' which is excellent, with a more orchestral sound complimenting the still heavy guitars.

After the promising first two tracks however, things start to get a little dull and middle of the road. Second non-album track 'A Winter's Poem' is a perfectly pleasant listen but is instantly forgettable, and demo 'Solemn Sea' (the only track to feature any male vocals) similarly washes over the listener without leaving any real impression. 'Mot Fjerne Land', another non-album track, is really rather pointless - a short track with no vocals other than male chanting and some background female warbling, it's pretty but one to skip after the first listen.

The final track is the album version of 'Elegy' - and other than the addition of a short guitar solo - seems completely identical to the single version, making one wonder why they bothered releasing a 'single' version in the first place.

Overall this EP is disappointing - it starts well but fizzles out quickly. The two worthwhile tracks are enjoyable enough that I still anticipate hearing the new album - I just hope it's a bit more memorable than this lacklustre offering. Definitely only one for completists as there is very little on offer for the casual listener.

Standout Tracks:  Elegy, Senses Capture.

Overall Score:   6 /10