Power of Metal.dk Review

Chitral "Chity" Somapala
Sinhabumi
Rating
Style: Hard Rock
Release date: 23 January, 2015
Playing time: 30:55
 


“Sinhabumi” is a very straightforward album consisting mainly of acoustic power ballads with the occasional Hard Rock solo thrown in. It lacks grit and is quite detached from Metal. Mind you, this is not necessarily a bad thing. 

Of Sri Lankan origin, Chitral ‘Chity’ Somapala has made a name for himself as a vocalist of quality fronting Power Metal bands such as Power Quest and Firewind. I clearly remember his on-stage enthusiasm years back when Power Quest was opening for Symphony X in a series of UK dates. 

Anyway, the main issue with “Sinhabumi” is that the language used is totally alien to me. And yet, strangely enough, I still enjoyed the album. Somapala has always had a strong sense of melody in his singing, and the skill to control and project every nuance of the verses. Well, I think it’s thanks to these factors that I could somehow relate to “Sinhabumi”. 

Let’s look at a couple of songs...’Ralu Mawathe’ is the most Rock-ish and modern-sounding one. Melody, a Doomy riff, a catchy chorus and an altogether great vibe make for an enjoyable listen. ‘Nadee Ganga’, on the other hand, is a piano/vocals number with strong hints of a 1970s Elton John. 

Almost simultaneously with the release of this solo album, Mob Rules and Red Circuit are releasing albums with Chitral Somapala on lead vocals. Besides that, it seems he’s also singing with NWOBHM band Rekuiem. He must be one of the busiest singers around right now! 

Especially if you’re into Toto, Journey...even Abba, “Sinhabumi” is a safe bet. 

View a teaser of “Sinhabumi”:


Tracklist

01. Sinhabumi
02. Me Lokaya Ape
03. Diwyalokayen
04. Ralu Mawathe
05. Miringuwa Parada
06. Sithuwili Pura
07. Sihinaya Pupura Yai

08. Nadee Ganga

Label: Audio Gate Productions
Promotion: Connecting Music
Reviewed by: Chris Galea
Date: 19 January, 2015
Website: www.somapala.com