Get ready to be captivated by a musical journey like no other – Fabienne Erni, the powerhouse vocalist behind ELUVEITIE and ILLUMISHADE, is stepping into the spotlight with her debut solo album, 'Starveil,' and it’s a game-changer. But here's where it gets intriguing: this isn’t just another metal album; it’s a deeply personal, genre-bending masterpiece that blends modern metal intensity with folk-inspired textures, cinematic arrangements, and even fragments of an invented fantasy language. And this is the part most people miss – it’s not just about the music; it’s a storytelling odyssey that gradually unveils its own lore, inviting listeners into an atmospheric world that’s as emotionally charged as it is sonically diverse. Releasing on March 13, 'Starveil' promises to be a defining moment in Erni’s already illustrious career.
From the opening track 'Vareon' to the haunting 'Lullaby Echo,' the album seamlessly transitions between powerful metal riffs and fragile, evocative passages, all anchored by Erni’s distinctive vocal presence. But here’s the controversial part: while Erni is celebrated for her work in folk metal and modern metal, 'Starveil' dares to push boundaries even further, incorporating elements that might challenge even her most devoted fans. Is this a bold evolution or a departure from what made her a fan favorite? We’ll let you decide.
Fabienne’s journey to this solo debut is as fascinating as the album itself. Inspired by vocal powerhouses like Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston at just 13 years old, she later found her voice in musical theater, Disney songs, and film soundtracks. A pivotal moment came when she witnessed Elton John’s 'Aida' as a teenager, solidifying her dream to become a singer. Her path then took her from studying vocal technique in Copenhagen to traveling through India, Nepal, and Thailand, and eventually settling in northern Sweden, where her connection to language and land deepened her musical confidence. It was during her master’s studies in Zurich that she joined ELUVEITIE, not just as a vocalist but also as a harpist, immersing herself in the band’s Celtic spirit and Gaulish language.
In 2019, Erni co-founded ILLUMISHADE, a modern metal band that quickly gained traction with their debut album 'Eclyptic: Wake Of Shadows.' Their visionary sound and immersive world-building resonated globally, leading to a deal with Napalm Records and their sophomore release, 'Another Side Of You.' Amidst touring with both bands, Erni also engages with fans through her Patreon channel, explores instruments like the ukulele and bouzouki, and collaborates with artists like FEUERSCHWANZ, Lindsay Schoolcraft, and INFECTED RAIN’s Vadim 'Vidick' Ojog on projects like MINDNOVA.
'Starveil' isn’t just a collection of songs – it’s a reflection of Erni’s creative essence, a testament to her fiery heart and artistic vision. But here’s a thought-provoking question: In an era where artists often stick to one genre, is Erni’s genre-blending approach a risky move or the future of music? Let us know in the comments!
Track Listing:
1. Vareon
2. Sky's Breath
3. Ritual (feat. Lena Scissorhands)
4. Stone By Stone
5. Starveil
6. Living And The Dead
7. Shaelun Vyrathi
8. Forged In Me
9. Never Let Go
10. Elren
11. Thalen Muron
12. Call Beyond Time
13. Lullaby Echo
Images courtesy of North Star PR.
