Rain Fell Within - Refuge (2002)

Rain Fell Within - Refuge

What can be said about a American band playing European gothic metal? A lot, really! The best part of the album is the guitar sound. It's a dirge heaven of mud. A very dense, full, and warm tone sets a strong foundation for this album. I can see some saying it's a bit unclear, but that's what I like so much about it.
Dawn's vocals are soprano operatic. They are absolutely breathtaking. I was never a fan of operatic vocals prior to hearing this band, but that all changed when I became blown away with a performance I saw in 1998. Dawn somehow combines a huge amount of somber emotion not heard by most singers in this genre. As she sings her own lyrics, you can picture her fighting for her life and what she believes in. With every word you can feel the deeply scarred pain life has left on her and she sure does know how to show it.
Tim, the drummer, is just as amazing. Very unique. Most drummers in this genre fail to keep the drums interesting, but this is not the case with his style. The drum production sounds fantastic as well.
Charles playing the fret-less bass and really gives the chords a drearily deep tone that really shows off how bad ass of a bassist he is. Also, he's a true bassist playing with his fingers as well.
Kevin, the guitarist, brings the dirge and doom I had mentioned above. The use of clean and distorted guitars brings a nice balance to the feel of the album. Not overused and never really expecting the changes between them, nor ever feeling contrived.
Jason, the guitarist, and Laurie did play a small part on this album as well. I am assuming they joined the band during the recording of Refuge perhaps? I am not a huge fan of the way she sings on "Passing Time". She is a good singer, but I think Dawn's voice is a much better fit for RFW, although I am sure most of you will enjoy Laurie's vocals just fine. Jason did play on one track, but I'm not sure if it's all him, but it sure fits right in with the masterpiece Refuge.
What was nice about RWF was that the members seemed very down to earth and genuine about themselves and the music they were creating. I admit I am very biased to them because I know some of them very well. Having played my band's first few shows opening for them was an honor. If you can find this cd, please don't hesitate and buy it.

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Tracklist:
1.     Torn Apart     05:47
2.     In the Knowing of You     07:01
3.     The Child Beneath     04:35
4.     In My Dreams     07:41    
5.     Save Your Soul     05:55    
6.     Winter's Embrace     02:12
7.     Into the Tower     07:51
8.     Sirens     06:42
9.     Burned Away     06:21
10.     Passing Time     03:36     

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