“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”:
