Artist description Somnus creates unique compositions of darkened yet orchestrated melodic metal, a blend of majestic harmonies, chaotic atmosphere and eerily haunting vocals. Through the music and live performance, Somnus' goal is to create a lasting visual image for the listener, while taking them on an etherial quest..

Music Style Black Metal

Musical Influences Melodic metal, Paganism, mythology, ancient times

Similar Artists Cradle of Filth, Dimmu Borgir, My Dying Bride, Opeth, Children of Bodom

Artist History The concept for the band Somnus was formed in 1995. The band set out to create a sound that would include extreme darkness and desolate imagery, yet capture the full dynamics of a cataclysmic orchestra. After writing the first few songs, Somnus recorded the demo To Return the Crimson Skies, then recorded a 2-song promo cassette - these songs are now on the CD - as well as "Seasons in the Abyss" for the Dwell Slayer tribute Gateway to Hell. Now their debut CD "Awakening the Crown" is available, featuring 10 tracks of darkened metal. Currently, the band is writing new material for their 2nd CD.

Group Members Scott Hilberg (Vocals/guitar), Rhiannon (Keyboards/vocals), Dennis Downey (Lead Guitar), Steve Rolf (Bass), Chris Stolle (Percussion)

Albums Awakening the Crown (2000), To Return the Crimson Skies 1997

Press Reviews "From the first moment that I listened to this cd, I was in complete awe. Somnus wasted no time displaying their timeless beauty, making it seem almost effortless. They play some of the best American black metal I have ever heard. There sound is a mixture of atmospheric black metal and orchestrated doom that really grabs your attention. The female vocals are breath taking, sided with the very grim male vocals. There are keyboards used in this album, but believe me, it completely adds to this band, giving them a more haunting and chilling feel. If you're into black metal I really suggest picking up this album, it's truly an essential to own." ----- by Metalpus ---------- "I am speechless really! "Awakening The Crown" is absolutely something astonishing! Somnus created one of the most beautiful albums of Dark Metal (I have no idea if the band will agree with this description but that’s how I see it!) I have ever heard! 10 tracks of pure beauty, talent and charisma. Let your soul and mind be embraced by darkness!" ----- by Eternal Hate Webzine #2 ---------- "4 1/2 out of 5 skulls - Somnus is a Black Metal band from Cleveland, Ohio, and I must say it is a relief to see that some good metal can still come out of the United States. Dark, somewhat atmospheric, Awakening the Crown is an album that you experience rather than just listen to. Using keyboards intelligently - that is you can hear them but they are not overused like some bands tend to do - and with occasional female vocals (the keyboardist is female) either in duo with the main vocalist or occasionally signing or speaking a passage, Somnus' sound is quite different from what I've heard so far. The lead vocalist varies his vocals enough to keep things interesting, if not surprising at times. The sound is a little orchestral at times, and I find the song arrangements are very well done - not one song is bad, in fact I'm having a hard time picking a favorite. This band has nothing to envy to Scandinavian Black Metal bands, and those who ditch U.S. Black Metal better take a second look at this one, they just don't know what they're missing. A very impressive debut album. Highly recommended." ----- Review by Michel's Metal Crypt --------------- For more reviews, go to http://www.geocities.com/somnusohio/press.html

Location Cleveland, OH - USA

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