Yes, we’re talking about Witchbreed. This band has been one of the most talked-about acts in female-fronted metal since they signed with Ascendance Records last year. Its demo of "Brotherhood of Fang & Claw" was an instant favorite on Sonic Cathedral’s 2008 two-CD compilation "A World of Sirens." So it’s no surprise that Witchbreed’s debut album, "Heretic Rapture," is one of the most highly anticipated releases in female-fronted metal this year.

And it’s living up to all the hype. "Heretic Rapture" is one raging bull of a debut, pairing aggressive black metal with progressive song structures and subtle keyboards for a true heavy metal experience. No choirs or orchestras on this set; this band doesn’t need them. Instead, Witchbreed focuses on its gem of a vocalist, Ruby Roque. Her vocals are raw, seductive, and wildly powerful – the perfect fuel for Witchbreed’s fiery approach. At the helm of all the madness is renowned producer Waldemar Sorychta, whose repertoire is a who’s who of metal bands (Lacuna Coil, Moonspell, Flowing Tears, Tiamat, Tristania, Samael). His signature balance of grit and ethereality fits Witchbreed’s style like a glove. So with all this mind, the listener knows they’re in for a real treat once the "play" button’s been pushed.

The two strongest tracks on "Heretic Rapture" feature commanding choruses that are surprisingly memorable. Ruby’s gravelly wail soars to astonishing heights on "Thy Eclipse" as she hits the refrain. Heavy guitars, exotic flares, and cinematic keys help make this song a spellbinder. "Rebel Blood," on the other hand, is a crushing riff-fest with blasting double-kick drums. Once again, the confident, gothic-tinged chorus prevails as the song’s main hook: "Never die alone / Follow me through immortal lands / Let me be the mirror of your pride / Fortune favors the bold."

Witchbreed also puts interesting spins on the standard power ballad. "Unspoken Vow" and "Ruby Light of the West" are examples of Ruby’s complete range and control over her vocal prowess. Both songs are quite different, too. The former builds from a mellow rocker into a brooding, muscular soliloquy; while elaborate beat and chord changes in the latter make you forget it started so gently and quietly. "Firethrone" is also mesmerizing, with quick, symphonic keys and a thunderous, uphill chorus.

The music gets even more delicious when the band combines the diverse elements of its sound. Kick-off track "Symphony for the Fallen" is part sinister thrasher, part intricate anthem, part unearthly wraith – nothing short of a Witchbreed tour de force. "Eden’s End" and "Medeusa" are gristly numbers that are more enthralling than the average mid-tempo songs, partly thanks to Ruby’s throaty deliveries and demonic growls by Paulo of My Enchantment. The interludes also have a distinctive Witchbreed feel, from the foreboding "Atheos" to the percussive, Portuguese-flavored "Heretica."

And of course, there’s "Brotherhood of Fang & Claw," now known simply as "Fang & Claw." It’s still the daring, roaring beast that the demo was, with intermittent breaks of elegant, synthesized symphonics. Yet, "Fang & Claw" is not the same animal. It’s been shortened and restructured to fit a more predictable format, losing some of its complexity and beauty along the way. Maybe it’s not fair to judge the final cut on an almost perfect demo – and maybe other listeners will love this new version, so let’s leave the debate for them to decide.

One thing is obvious after one spin of "Heretic Rapture," though: It’s not just some force to be reckoned with. In truth, it’s an absolutely wicked reckoning. One could say that Witchbreed has crafted a distinctive sound and managed to execute its vision with few flaws, but that doesn’t quite cut it. "Heretic Rapture" is one of the most fearless, hard-hitting, and exciting albums in female-fronted metal this year, and a debut that will not be forgotten any time soon. Even if you don’t usually like your metal brash and rough, this is worth a go-round. You might just find yourself willing to broaden your horizons and embrace this Witchbreed.

9 / 10