Shadowdances

T

he band Shadowdances was one of the veterans of the Lithuanian underground Metal scene. Previously known as Conscious Riot in 1991, they became known for their 1994 cassette album The Soil featuring extreme, technical and melodic style death metal published on the 'Flight Zone Productions' label. In 1995, however, the band adopted the current name. Along with their name, their music also changed direction by becoming more emotional, personal and dark. The new name was chosen by the drummer/vocalist Juodas, the only remaining original member.

Spanish label 'Abstract Emotions' would release their Burning Shadows EP in 1996 featuring Tadas "Blinda" Juozapaitis (bass) and Raimondas 'Raima' Kieras (guitars).

After extensive gigging around Lithuania during that year, a two-year break would follow for personal reasons. While in the USA, Juodas would meet up with Laima (a.k.a. Lady Amial; ex-Prosecutor), another Lithuanian musician also trying to save money to upgrade equipment. At the 8th "Death Comes..." show on November 14, 1998 Shadowdances announced its return with Laima on keyboard. A new sound would augment their old with back to basic influences of Dead Can Dance, Vast, The Tea Party, Anathema, The Mission, Dream Theater, Machine Head and Deftones.