Sound Over Matter is the debut album of Finnish metal band Hevein, although the band was already formed back in 1992. Perhaps the main reason for this has been the difficulty of finding a proper vocalist. Not until October of 2003 did Hevein finally find a full-time vocalist, namely Juha Immonen. When it comes down to describing the music, things get interesting... this isn't your average metal band. What differs Hevein from others is the use of cello and violin. Basically Hevein plays a mixture of death and thrash metal with slightly orchestral sections incorporated within.

Clean vocals and growls take turns on this record depending on the material... this, for one, ensures certain cross-over appeal. Nonetheless, musically "Sound Over Matter" is rather traditional metal album. It doesn't offer any real surprises. However, Max Lilja (ex-Apocalyptica, Tekijä Tuntematon) and Aino Piipari enliven the music by bringing up the atmosphere.

Mikko Karmila mixed this album while Svante Forsbäck took care of mastering. Thereby it isn't surprising this record sounds warm without losing the clarity of stringed instruments. Regardless, some aspects of the mix could have been further honed. For example, at times slight background distortion leaked into the mix.

All in all, Hevein is a welcome addition to the world of metal. It'll be interesting to follow how their sound will evolve throughout the years.

Release date: August 31st, 2005

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- MAGE (August 29th, 2005)

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LINE-UP:
Immonen, Juha: Lead vocals Hedström, Leif: Guitars, Secondary Vocals Oksaharju, Alpo: Drums Koivunen, Tomi: Bass Piipari, Aino: Violin Lilja, Max: Cello
Producer:	Unavailable
Mixing by:	Karmila, Mikko
Mastering by:	Forsbäck, Svante

	TRACKLIST:
	01. Break Out the Hammers 02. Worth Fighting for 03. iOta 04. As Far As the Eye Can See 05. Only Human 06. Bleed the Day 07. Beg to Differ 08. Hold Fast 09. New Hope 10. Last Drop of Innocence Length: 44:49