Review VLAD IN TEARS “Hide Inside”

Vlad in Tears is a band founded in 2007 in Italy, who moved to Berlin in 2013. Their debut album, “Seed of an Ancient Pain”, was released in 2008, and the move to Berlin also marked a new beginning for the band, who underwent some line-up changes during this period.

In recent years, the band has released new records every one to two years. “Relapse” was unleashed in 2015, and now it is “Hide Inside” that represents the next step for the five-piece band. The newest album contains 14 songs, starting with “The Monster Inside”. This opener, together with “Your Trace” and “Living Nightmare” represent what Vlad in Tears is all about musically. It is a fusion of dark metal and alternative rock, spiced up with a gothic vibe that blasts out of the speakers.

“The Monster Inside” is a modern rock song with heavier riffs and a somber vibe. It’s a solid start to the album, before “Your Trace” takes over and adds another dimension. The songs partly reminded me of alternative rock from bands like Alter Bridge, while John Connor’s (Dog Eat Dog) guest contribution provides “Your Trace” with a brisk crossover vibe. It is one of the best songs on the album, and really fun to listen to. It’s a nice twist on “Hide Inside”.

“Touch Me” is a throbbing rock song that builds an eerie atmosphere, while “Empty” is loud and powerful with industrial influences. “My Wake” is slower but still heavy, and it sinks slowly into your mind. The heaviness comes from modern, haunting riffs that give “My Wake” a pulsating edge.

Melancholy runs through “Real”, while “Tomorrow” starts with a bang before alternating between loud blasts and a heavy-hearted verse. The finale, “Hide”, is an acoustic conclusion to the album. Although it is a gloomy song, it is a very emotional way for the band to finish off the record.

Vlad in Tears have added the somber and emotional album “Hide Inside” to their list of releases. This 14-track work showcases a diverse range of influences, all tied together by an atmosphere of gloom from start to finish. Those who can’t stand bright sunlight will find that “Hide Inside” is a great soundtrack that makes everything feel a little calmer, darker and more introverted.