New York City quartet Vaura have just released their debut album "Selenelion" via the Wierd record label. Lead track "Vanth" combines a number of elements, showcasing a sophisticated shoegazer sound with percussive metal elements. Dark, echoed vocals over a medieval plundering beat gives way to near prog-rock interludes. "Obsidian Damascene Sun" (offered as a free download at their bandcamp) takes the propulsive drumming and hyper guitar strumming of black metal and pairs it with slower, more melodic, lyrically intelligible vocals. This is a formula that could create crossover appeal to those who find certain aspects of pure black metal a bit too harsh. See them live at Home Sweet Home (131 Chrystie St) on March 14 and at Public Assembly on March 31. – Dave Cromwell
