Naio Ssaion - Out Loud (Napalm Records)

Violins are not total strangers to the rock genre - indeed, they are often used as backing instruments to add depth and atmospherics to Gothic and Black Metal albums. Slovenians Naio Ssaion, however, have decided to elevate the instrument to one of the main elements of their sound, giving them a whole new sound of their own.

Some might think this wouldn't work too well, given the heavier guitars and drumming on display here. Their sound bears large resemblances to that of Evanescence - the guitar riffs have the same, deep metallic edge of Ben Moody's (particularly on opening number "Static"), and vocalist Barbara can often sound like Amy Lee.

Thankfully, this is not mere imitation. Songs like the perfect "The Mirror" are sweeping soundscapes full of violin-led emotion (probably sadness) and melody, raising the odd goose-bump in the process.

Barbara's vocals are now in English (previous album Numedia was solely in Slovenian), and are more eloquent and meaningful than 99% of British pop. Granted, that was a given, as international non-English-speaking acts tend to be far better lyricists. Yes, some of the themes are slightly adolescent, but when you consider the musical technicality and skill on display, that is quickly forgotten.

Not wanting to be overly-analytical, this album will appeal to all fans of melodic, female vocal-led "gothic" rock. Barbara's gorgeous vocals, Rok's classical violin, Mic's pounding drumming, Lenart's bass, and the heavy twin-guitars of Tine and Luka - all these elements combine to form one of the best rock albums of this year.

If you are familiar with the work of Evanescence, Die Happy and Guano Apes, then you will have a pretty good idea of what these guys sound like. Add to the mix some Apolcalyptica and you'll be at the right spot.