EBOLA JOY? Who the hell comes up with such a name? According to the band this unfavorable word combination was meant to remind of the contrariness and simultaneous existence of the dark (Ebola virus) and light (joy). Well… I guess Homer Simpson would probably have had a better comment: “Eboly Joy? Isn’t it the new girl friend of Ned Flanders?” Feels more plausible to me too…
Words are mere sound and smoke, dimming the heavenly light. In the case of Gallery the sound is utmost appealing. The combination of electronic Pop Rock and (dark) Metal isn’t really new; Theater Of Tragedy has already been successful with it on Musique and Assembly – and likewise being hostiled. Well, latter one shouldn’t happen to Gallery since EBOLA JOY are at work much more homogeneous and organic than T.o.T was. While T.o.T. have probably orientated themselves more in direction of Human League the Wave/Electro-side of EBOLA JOY crosses Depeche Mode, Killing Joke (in the middle) and The Cure. Where T.o.T. practiced cool techno-metal, EBOLA JOY deliver enthralling moments of symphonic dark metal that even doesn’t stop for occasional growls. The key word is “symphonic”, cause all-too heavy and tricky sequences won’t be found on Gallery. There is no need for actually. The mélange of powerful elements and catchy melodies these Czech guys master exceedingly great. A song like Power Of Autumn should fill every goth dancefloor and even attract head-bangers. Compared to bands such as De/Vision, who makes themselves comfortable in the bed frame of Dave Gahan and Martin Gore, EBOLA JOY pursue their very own path. They don’t glue too much to their idols and carve their own niche with Gallery. Every musical border crosser, who isn’t loath of pleasing heaviness and melancholic-draped Indie-Pop together with hip kitsch will find a comforting housing here. Added by surprises like Dumb Peacock Scream, a song between a New Wave songwriter attitude and a Art Rock ballad. A highlight! Altogether an album that gives much pleasure in ebol(a)ous darkness.