Sunlight is overrated – walk on the dark side

by Katy England, staff writer

When By Blood Alone’s debut CD was released in 2005, fans of the Goth-rock group had a dark and rich album to enjoy – likely at night with deep red wines and candles burning. Letting By Blood Alone tap into your darker side with “Eternally,” a rocking yet sensual album, is an experience that shouldn’t be missed.

There’s a mix of moods on the album that will waken the inner darkness in you. Lead singer Cruella’s evocative vocals wrap around you like a chill breeze as John Graveside’s roaring guitar surrounds her like an angry demon – the combination is juxtaposition rock and Goth ballad that leaves you wanting more. Jenny Williamson’s masterful keyboard makes you feel like you’ve wandered into a dark carnival only to wonder if you want to leave.

The title song, “Eternally,” is a haunting vampire ballad of unending isolation, hunger, cold beauty and love, a rich tapestry that highlights each band member’s talents. The other songs can appeal to most depending on your taste.

Fans of the band have a chance to see the group perform live at Geno’s Rock Club in Portland during the second annual “Halfway to Halloween Horror Ball 2: When Mars Attacks!” on May 5 where they will play with Covered in Bees. This is a great opportunity for folks who love Halloween but hate waiting until October to dress up and go out. This trick is going to be a definite treat for anyone who’s interested; the theme this year is Sci-fi and ray guns – antennae and silver lycra jumpsuits are encouraged.

This fall By Blood Alone plans to release their full-length album “Seas of Blood.” For more information about By Blood Alone, visit their website www.bybloodalone.com. To purchase tickets for the Halfway to Halloween Horror Ball, visit the show’s website at http://www.myspace.com/halfwaytohalloweenhorrorball.