Replacing an established singer is always a challenge. Some go too far off track while others opt to play safe, occasionally even trying to mimic their predecessor. Thankfully, there are no such issues with Finnish symphonic metal act Amberian Dawn as Swedish/English vocalist Nicole Willerton stamps her authority on the band’s ninth album, Temptation’s Gates (Napalm Records), adding her own distinctive style but without falling into any hidden traps. It does help that previous singer Capri (aka Päivi Virkkunen) wasn’t the band’s first vocalist herself, but fourteen years is still a lengthy period of time to enjoy the adoration of loyal fans. Continue reading →