Virgin Black | Artist

Virgin Black is an Australian gothic metal band formed 1993 in Adelaide, South Australia, by founding members Samantha Escarbe (guitar) and Rowan London (vocals, keyboards). The duo recorded two early EPs Virgin Black ('95) and Trance ('98) which began gaining international recognition for their melodic doom metal sound lead by melancholic guitar lines and Rowan's charismatic tenor vocals. Their debut album Sombre Romantic displayed a more symphonic style with London's vocals ranging from shrieks and growls to soaring melodies and choral chants. Their second album Elegant and Dying again featured symphonic elements, with Escarbe contributing cello and guest musician Sonia Wilkie playing flute. The band then began composing a series of scores for what was to become the three-volume Requiem set. The first part of the trilogy, Requiem - Pianissimo, is a strictly classically oriented album featuring the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, choral and solo singing. Requiem - Mezzo Forte follows in a similar vein, and the last part Requiem - Fortissimo has a predominantly death/doom metal sound. For the trilogy albums, the band expanded its lineup to include Grayh (bass, vocals) and Luke Faz (drums). Standout albums include Sombre Romanrtic, Elegant and Dying, Requiem Mezzo Forte and Requiem Fortissimo.

Artist Website: virginblack.store

Featured Albums: Virgin Black

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