ARCH ENEMY | HANDSHAKE WITH HELL | Does Replacing A Singer Really Matter? - Scottish Singer Reacts

BART! Your mortal enemy is on the radio!
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[@maneatingpie2338]

Angela is actually the second vocalist for the band making Alissa the third. Johan Liiva was the original vocalist.

[@thedanitone]

For me, Angela is my favorite for the band. I feel like the anarchy-punk aesthetic, her more aggressive harsh vocal style and lyricism just fit the band perfectly. That’s not to take anything away from Alissa, cause she’s an amazing vocalist

[@nicholasmullins3693]

"Today, we are doing Alyssa." Very treacherous choice of words 😂

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

Damn I didn’t even think of that 😂

[@BruGaleen]

"What are you doing, step-bro?" HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!

[@northof4912]

😅😅

[@ChrisHendrickson82]

I've been a fan of Arch Enemy for over 20 years and I don't think I don't think I can choose which singer I like better. They bring different things to the table. Angela sounds more like unbridled fury with a punk rock revolutionary style, while Alissa has more technical skill and looks like some sort of death metal sorceress. Like other people have said, Angela picked Alissa to replace her. About this song specifically, this was the first time that she did any clean singing for this band, and she's said in an interview somewhere that it was Angela that encouraged her to do some cleans.

[@ApocalypseRider]

I agree you 100%, but first song with clean vocals was actually "Reason to believe" from previous album (if cutting hairs, it was Avalanche from "War Eternal" but she did cleans only in chorus for couple words ;) )

[@ChrisHendrickson82]

@@ApocalypseRider you know, I should know that. I know I've heard it. Why did my brain do a Dick Van Dyke style trip over itself and come out so confidently wrong?

[@michaelkarlsson5966]

You don't mention their first singer. What do you think of Johan Liiva?

[@thomaskellyjr6370]

Check out The Watcher and Deceiver Deceiver with Alissa. All harsh vocals no cleans.

[@stoneysopranoyukon9398]

I absolutely love BOTH Angela Gassow and Alyssa White-Gluz. Angela for her absolute aggression and Alyssa for her subtleties with aggression. 🤘❤️🇨🇦

[@CinderfallGaming]

Really recommend checking out the lyrics for anything Alyssa has written she’s very outspoken and progressive. A lot of deep and important things to what she sings about.

[@nicholasmullins3693]

A bit of background, when Alyssa first to joined the band. She only did harsh vocals. In her previous band, she had done a mix of both and she missed doing them. So did her fans. So this song was a bit of a showcase introducing old Arch Enemy fans to the new vocalist, essentially. Even though, I believe she had done an entire album with them prior to this one.

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

Ah interesting okay. She’s a great vocalist for sure. If she were in another band doing this I would 100% listen 😊 thanks for watching Nicholas 💜

[@maneatingpie2338]

2 albums before this one, Will to Power and War Eternal

[@brack6794]

Alyssa was introduced to Arch Enemy fans back in 2014 on War Eternal, and then obviously was on Will to Power in 2017, prior to 2022's Deceivers which this song is on. Personally I prefer Arch Enemy to only have harsh vocals, and just like In Flames - I think their overall sound is degraded softening things up.

[@mtm5610]

Hi! Great channel! One of the guitarists is Jeff Loomis, you should check out a band he played in earlier: Nevermore

[@PostMortalForm]

She already did a nevermore reaction, go and watch it! I’d totally be down for a second reaction though, if you’re reading this Melissa, sentient number 6 live!

[@SinistrousWoodlove]

Cheers Melisa Kelly! As a long time subscriber but first-time commenter I just have to say how much I enjoy your reaction videos. Your honesty, sense of humor and accent are so engaging. Thanks for doing something positive and having the courage to express your own opinion regardless of the naysayers.

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

Thank you for watching my dude 😊

[@FaceEatingOwl]

I prefer Alyssa in her previous band, The Agonist. They're definitely worth a listen sometime. Been a while since I've listened, but I think they are a bit more progressive and less melodic than Arch Enemy. Angela ftw. My favourite Arch Enemy song is from the original singer, Johan Liiva, (Angela did rerecord it, I think.) Transmigration Macabre. Intense and groovy as hell. Cheers, Melly. P.s. If you would like a harsh vocal punk band check out, In Evil Hour. A female led band from north England. 2050, is the song I'd suggest. 🤘🎶

[@markdelgado569]

But on the bright side, we were introduced to Vicky Psarakis!

[@scotthahn6666]

Good band and song! I like both vocalists. A really all female Metal band from Sweden is Drain STH! I would suggest the songs Black or Simon Says by them! I Love the wavy hair and red blouse! ❤❤❤ Keep up the great work My Fine Scottish Lady!

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

Thank you Scott! I really enjoyed it, they are both outstanding! Hope you’re keep keeping well. Don’t forget to send me your deets for Xmas cards 😊 [e-mail]

[@ll7868]

Crypta - Fernanda Lira and the rest of this all-female Brazilian death metal band don't give a flying f**k about their looks, it's all about aggression, anger and banging of heads, think Slayer if they were women. Fernanda only does growls and gutterals, she doesn't sing. Their drummer Luanna Dametto is a student of Brazilian style metal drumming (along the lines of Eloy Casagrande with Sepultura or Aquiles Priester with Angra and WASP) and makes it look effortless, easily in my Top 10 Metal Drummers list.

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

You had me at dont give a f about their looks! Thanks for watching my dude 😊💜

[@nogodsnomasters666]

Crypta is fantastic. would love a reaction

[@ll7868]

@@SoulSingerDiscovers If there was a hell and an elevator leading to it, Crypta is the band you would hear over the speakers.

[@PostMortalForm]

Hell yeah, crypta are great

[@thomaskellyjr6370]

I love Angela unconditionally but I think the band went to a higher level with Alissa.

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

Thats totally fair. She is amazing so it’s no surprise. I prefer Angela but I concur that Alissa is a star in her own right. 😊

[@JasonSmith-lp6wg]

As someone who's worked as a Professional Background Performer, in Film/TV, in Toronto, I, completely, understand your point about how a woman's (and, yes, a man's) appearance, to some degree, takes precedence over her ability. There would be times on set when I'd look around and be annoyed with the fact that we're shooting a scene in a hospital waiting area and most of the women look like they've fallen from the runway. For myself, while looks do matter, they don't matter as much as who the person is. For example, Floor Jansen is a real source of inspiration for me, because she's an exceptionally talented woman who knows what she wants and who - despite the various setbacks she's faced in her life (like burnout, cancer, appendicitis, etc.) - has held true to her aim. Would I love to let her slap me senseless around a room and make me do things for which no priest would forgive me? Hell Yes! (Beam me up for that mission, Scotty!) That fantasy aside, it's who she is and what she does that I find so impressive, and its these qualities/aspects of character that I look for in the musicians I admire. That said, I'm, also, bisexual (which, I guess, make me an outlier) and do appreciate an attractive man in the lead position. (Have you seen Bruce Dickinson's 1984 performance in Live After Death? He's smoking hot! I'd let 1984 Bruce Dickinson have his way with me like a monkey having at it with a bunch of bananas!) To your point, yes, looks become problematic when there's too much emphasis placed upon them. That said, I've no issue with a performer exploiting said aspect; one just hopes it doesn't become the dominant point. As for Music Videos, most Metal music videos drive me nuts, because there's this emphasis on - what I call - the Power Stance, which I think fucking idiotic. I get it: it's dynamic posing that's meant to make performers look strong and engaging; however, unless one is being attacked by a bear and trying to defend themselves, no musician does this nonsense in a live performance. Almost finally, I appreciate that you spoke about the subject of looks and that you're upfront with how you feel about the band's you're reviewing. I get that reviewers don't want to alienate/upset their audience; but I think it important that an honest critique be given. There's being positive, but a false positive is never a good thing. Finally (yes, I've arrived!), regarding her 'clean vocals,' I would agree with you: they're not the most interesting. I thought her much more impressive in her previous band, The Agonist, and I do encourage you to watch/review their video Thank You Pain. It's a brilliant song, and, at this point, it's not so Metal Barbie. (Mind you, I think it a disservice to say that about her, because it's not who she is; but, again, I get your point.) Fucking Finally (my version of P. S.), if you want to hear/review a great, female singer - who can do both Growl/Clean Vocals, you need to review Huntress. Their founder/frontwoman, Jill Janus, was a classically trained, Soprano Coloratura who could Growl the heads of most people. Unfortunately, she suicided in 2018. Also, Floor's previous band, ReVamp, showcased her ability to Growl, which is very impressive. Her live video for Disdain, Graspop, 2010, you'll want to see. Though Nightwish gave her a much bigger platform, I think ReVamp was a much better vehicle for her creativity, because she's a brilliant writer who wrote very deeply about the issues troubling her. Her first band, After Forever, is a whole other story. Any rate, my beautiful lass, bang on! :)

[@PostMortalForm]

I think the reason some people don’t like Alyssa is, as you said, “it’s a different product”. People wanted more of the arch enemy they know and love and instead got something slightly different, which was disappointing. Personally I kind of look at them like 2 different bands and I like them both in different ways. You should check out a band called Once Human, a female vocalist who does some amazing like melodic screaming, it’d be great to see what you think of it. I’d recommend the song scar weaver!

[@robertalp3878]

I agree with your comments about the camera work - you see it on TV too - a pretty girl and so much focus on anything below the neck line!

[@pillarhood471]

Can I make a couple of suggestions for female harsh vocals with NO clean singing? Walls Of Jericho, maybe the song “Relentless”. Candace is so intense, and to be honest, a pretty intimidating performer. 😂 Also, check out Runhild from Thorr’s Hammer (two R’s - you don’t want to know about the other band with just one R) Check out the songs “Norge” or “Troll”. She recorded the vocals when she was just 17, and I’ve never heard any other female even come close to her growl. It’s insane. ❤❤❤❤

[@Exorcismer]

Alissa can do similar to Runhild, check her out in The Agonist - and Their Eulogies Sang Me to Sleep, specifically the breakdown :) I wish they would use her full vocal range in Arch enemy. I also think everyone should check out Courtney Laplante in iwrestledabearonce for example Gift of Death, i feel like she doesnt get to use her full range either in Spiritbox

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

Thank you for this 😊💜

[@imcrazedandconfused]

Yeah, I had a hard time to get into Arch Enemy with Alissa, too. But now, soundwise it is extremely hard to find someone who could compete with the brutal richness of Angelas growls. She is a phenomenon. Britta Görtz (Cripper) comes to my mind, if I think of power and deep richness of growl, but she just went into death metal recently and was all about thrash metal before. Comparing Angela to Alissa is like comparing Tatiana Shmayluk to Courtney LaPlante, but even more different. Apples to oranges. Though, I really think Arch Enemy did the best they could to replace Angela, and I am pretty sure that Angela was part of this decision. Until just recently, Alissa was hired to replace her and keep the style of the music, so having her singing in clear and rock voices is pretty new, and I think, they just wanted to go the extra step to make themselves future-proof and show off that they can up their productions to a more commercial and modern level. As of performance on stage, for me, it is like having the female power demon on stage compared to having a fairy (ok, maybeee banshee) demon on stage. Alissa has not that anarchistic raw and evil powerhouse aspect in her performance. But for sure, she absolutely knows how to own a stage from the first second of a gig. It is absolutely fun to watch her performing. She knows how to use expression and run a show. And really, she did not try to use her beauty on stage. She tries to be as tough as she can and be a worthy successor to Angela, she knew that this was a one-time occasion to get into one of the big name bands of death metal when she has been offered the job, and how hard it would be to fit this heritage. I guess it had been very reassuring for her to know, that Angela is still part of the band as the manager and obviously was part of the decision to pick her because of her growling abilities. So yeah, I am totally fine with what Arch Enemy is today, it is a natural evolution of a great band, that was melodic from the beginning, but still death metal with great instrumental power and vocals. Also, the guitar works evolved over time. They really got what their own strengths are, and they really know how to do these 2-part solos, where both guitarists shine, and right at the moment when you adapted to the beauty of the melody, they always find a twist that surprises you the death metal way, harmonically and/or rhythmically. So it does not get cheesy, even if they get more theatrical and bombastic in production nowadays. I still love it. I hope that the clean vocal parts work out for them. Alissa was always able to pull off a wide range of vocals and this is the chance to re-incorporate it into her main band, into her role in this epic very well-known band. Not a small decision. It might piss off some old fans, but hey, it has the potential to bring them further into the big dollars mainstream - and I am the last one to judge this, because I would LOVE to see death metal to rise into the charts and reaching more people. And for sure these guys deserve to earn the money after all those years. I mean, the second brother, former guitarist of Arch Enemy, really left the band, because it is so exhausting to try to make a living from this! There are lots of easier ways to make a living, have a family, a weekend without work, healthier working hours. FOR SURE. So they deserve any economical success that comes with the latest uprising of metal into the charts, like with Spiritbox, Jinjer etc.... Why shouldn't Arch Enemy profit from this as well - I would love to see that. I am not the one who says "What a fucking total SELLOUT!" when a band has more than 20 followers on facebook and Insta, like some black metal folks do, LOL. Yeah, I did not like Alissa in Arch Enemy at first. But I am the last one who does not appreciate it, if someone fights her way through hate from old fans and tries to deliver a killer performance, awesome vocals and fits into a concept and gives it a different but great twist. She impressed me with her will to do this and be worthy, and I think she absolutely is. That was a fun reaction my dear Scottish dudette! I still appreciate your "honest reviews", your unfiltered thoughts (oh well, I don't know how much you have to edit out each episode, LOL), and the fun you are able to pull off when listening to new music! Have a great, great weekend and wish you all the best, Melisa! Keep them coming and never stop making music. (Says the guy who hasn't practiced a note for 2 weeks now. ... LOL.) 🤔😎🤘❤

[@lexblack8306]

People have a problem with change, it has nothing to do with the singer. But the discomfort and prejudice that change brings.

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

Thats very wise. I think you may be right! :)

[@raymono91]

Angela is the manager now if I'm not mistaken she brought Alissa on. Alissa has an incredible voice of the best I've heard in a long time. She's incredibly beautiful there's no denying that inside and outside.

[@northof4912]

It’s very simple who is best - Alissa is 🇨🇦 - enough said!

[@fuselpeter5393]

I recommend Messa from Italy. One of my favorite bands of the last years with an awesome female singer and a nice subtle doomy sound. No harsh vocals tho. Try the songs Pilgrim or Babalon as there are official music videos of them.

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

I will do! Thanks for watching my dude 💜😊

[@zenkrome]

Id heavily recommend checking out her vocals from her former band the agonist. Mixing in clean vocals without loseing any of the songs edge is a talent she had with them that she seems to have lost after she left that band and i havnt quite been able to find it in any other band either. A good example is there song the tempest from the album lullibies for the dorment mind.

[@ll7868]

4 More Female Fronted Bands You Need To Hear; Ad Infinitum - Melissa Bonny. Any song is a good song, try "From The Ashes". Rage Of Light - Martyna Halas. I like "Lead The Riot". Martyna replaced Melissa, they have similar styles but Martyna is a bit heavier on the gutterals. In This Moment - Maria Brink has the sexiest voice in metal, or any genre for that matter. "Big Bad Wolf" is one of their most popular but they also did John Wick's Theme "I Would Die For You" for John Wick 4. IMHO it's a better theme song than anything James Bond ever had. Battle Beast - Noora Louhimo is an underrated vocalist, the band is like an 80s throwback with a Glam/Hair vibe and the songs are catchy, "King For A Day" and "No More Hollywood Endings" are worth a reaction. Fun Fact: They were named after the character Battle Beast in the Invincible comics, now a tv show. If you ever do tv show reactions that would be a good one to have on your list.

[@ll7868]

Regarding what you were saying about image, Noora gets a lot of flack for her weight, but that's just the way here RNA designed her, doesn't take away from her ability to front a metal band. She's also trained in various dance styles including ballet and choreographed the "No More Hollywood Endings" sequences. Nobody cared what Meat Loaf looked like, he even named himself after his favourite food. Vince Neil went to sh!t and sounds even worse than he looks and people still pay $1,000 a ticket to see him front Motley Crue in 20,000 seat stadiums, do you think they would do the same if Doro gained 100 lbs and couldn't sing? She's on the verge of turning 60 and has to look and sound just like she did in 1984 otherwise her career is over. Image shmimage, I'd pay to see a 250 lb Doro mime the lyrics of her songs over watching Vince drool and slur his way through Shout At The Devil one more time.

[@eckligt]

No shout for the OG vocalist in Arch Enemy, Johan Liiva?

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

Don’t worry Dude, Ill get there I promise :)

[@killermonjero]

As far as Alyssa's looks go, I say, if you have an asset, use it. If there's no talent or skill beyond looks, you won't last long anyway. Arch Enemy stands out to me from most modern metal, because they actually have melodies. Too much of modern metal is all rhythmic. I like both singers. The thing I'll say about Angela is she has actually scared me. And I'm a grown-ass man. You said you liked harmonizing guitars and piano. In that case, I suggest a band called Lovebites and their song "Swan Song." kzbin.info/www/bejne/jXPLpaSdnr14d5Y I searched your channel, and as far as I can tell, you haven't reacted to them. Finally, I really like your personality, and I would totally vote for you for Empress of the World.

[@scottfield5849]

Rock on, Melisa. 🤘😎👍

[@valksyvalksington6155]

I understand the thought process behind comparing the two - Angela and Alissa - but always tend to reconcile this with the fact Angela selected Alyssa as her successor and now manages both Arch Enemy and Alissa's work outside the band. I suppose this makes it easier to talk about, and compare, technique and presentation without being tempted down the path of imagined rivalry and other such sensational nonsense. I'd argue that Angela as the OG has a fiercer and heavier sound and that's great, but Alissa has a wider variety of growl textures or colours for want of a better term - she has a really powerful command of how much fry or grit or rasp she wants. I find this more interesting just because there is more variety in the sounds. I love that both have great diction, this is something I struggle with when vocalists growl - I suppose this may be because I'm older and have lost some frequencies from hearing but I can't understand a word most growlers/screamers are saying. I noticed, from having subtitles on, the YT's automated subtitle generator was able to pick up more or less accurately large portions of the growls (and a lot less of the cleans).

[@daveboutilier-wx1et]

A good example of her control is the live stuff. I think it’s “this is war” there’s a part first listen I thought her voice slipped in chorus but every time she did same effect in same spot so I was like “Damn, that’s intentional, impressive”

[@mandoperthstacker]

Love Alyssa's The World is Yours song

[@markdelgado569]

Unpopular opinion perhaps, but I think Alissa has been underutilized in Arch Enemy. For me she shined the most in The Agonist. Though, The good news I wouldn't have ever found out about Vicky Psarakis and her amazing talents (Replaced Alissa in The Agonist and is co-lead singing in Sicksense with Robby Fonts).

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

I haven’t heard her other band but I am definitely going to have to go check them out to see what you mean. I think everyone has got their own take and that’s pretty interesting. Thanks for watching my dude 😊💜

[@JeffreyBezeau]

What i never liked about Alissa in Arch Enemy, is that Angela embodied some core element of what Arch Enemy was and should have kept being which were: Agression, Power, Rebellion and Revolt. Angela were these things as a front woman and what she was bringing as a singer to the band, and the image she was projecting. She was bad ass, point and simple. Women that i knew back then loved Angela as she was that Matriarch figure that was appealing to them, not because of how "beautiful" she was (even tho she is), but because of what she was representing. Yeah she's a beautiful woman, but that savage side of her was what was attractive for my girl friends from back then. Angela was fit, fierce and looked like you couldn't mess with her or she'd rip your guts...and Alissa feels nothing like this. Yeah she's fit, but that's it. She's projecting that "metal beauty trophy girl" and a lot of Arch Enemy's fan base just hated and still hate that change. Another thing is, a lot of the fan base was really, really displeased to see that Alissa managed to bring clean vocals in Arch Enemy. I'm one of those, honestly, that isn't pleased with Alissa in Arch Enemy. I love Alissa, in The Agonist. She was a betterfit in a core band like The Agonist than in a melo death band like Arch Enemy in my opinion.

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

I completely understand the fans not enjoying the new vocals. It’s such a change from what Angela used to bring and if I were a fan from the beginning I probably would’ve turned away after the hired Alyssa. Alyssa is very talented there’s no denying that and I’m definitely gonna look up for in this band you’re talking about, but as far as arch enemies concerned think I’ll be diving into more Angela soon 😊

[@tubelious]

yeah, they have different vibes. I was blown away by Angela for many years, 20 years ago... but now, with the latest album I do prefer Alissa.

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

totally fair. She’s amazing. 😻

[@bitofasickfarker]

Awesome as always Melissa. Yes I still have a crush on your accent (haha) I found it interesting you commenting once again on something seen in the video. I like that too, however on this occasion the comment is regarding the voices of two women who are kick arse singers. As those who have the vision and can watch the clip the artist has chosen to accompany their song I feel sways the review. Much like the Slayer video, had the visual of the jail and Danny Trejo not been there, would the review of the song been different? Had we removed the sensory of the visual, then truly the content of review of sound and vocal content would be much richer.

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

That’s a fair point 😊

[@judgedino]

Listen to "Deciever Deciever" Gotta be one of my fave metal punk songs of recent years! Ya don't have to do a reaction to it! Just give it a listen.... Think you'll like it! Mwah XX ❤

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

Will do! Thank you 😊💜

[@martinjohansson7535]

You should check out The Halo effect if you like harmonising guitars 🎸

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

Will do! Thanks Martin :)

[@ericnaylorguitar]

good video 👍 I would probably like Arch Enemy more if I didn't feel like they were wasting the talent of Jeff Loomis, who I much prefer on his solo records or with Conquering Dystopia or Nevermore

[@christophschmedes5975]

Theold singer from arch enemy is Angla Gussow she is wild

[@rofyle]

You do yourself a disfavor, Melissa if you don't hear Alissa sing with her former band, The Agonist. She was absolutely something else back then. Back then she incorporated pig squeals and pig grunts into her growls. There was nothing melodic about them. They were a real death metal band. The only way I can think to describe her is she sounded as if she had caught a demon pig by the tail and then swallowed it whole. It was horrifying and yet also somehow captivating, as though the darkest filth from hell had been unleashed upon the earth and no matter how hard you try you just can't look away. Their biggest hit was "Their Eulogies Sang Me to Sleep". It begins with Alissa sounding as if she's tearing the wings off angels with her voice. That said, I agree with you about Angela and Arch Enemy. The Agonist was an actual death metal band. Arch Enemy is a heroic metal band. I much prefer Angela in Arch Enemy and Alissa in the Agonist

[@northof4912]

Alissa has a place in the history of a Nightwish. Alissa and Elize Ryd were guest vocalists with Kamelot, touring with Nightwish on their Imaginaerum tour in the US, late September 2012. Tensions between the band and their current singer, Annette, were bad and she came down with the flu and could not perform in their Denver show. Alissa and Elize filled in and pulled off the show, to the delight of the Denver crowd. Annette returned to do one last performance, 2 days later but relations were so poor, she was fired right after. Now comes the infamous follow up call to Floor Jansen, whom they had been discussing as possible fill in for Annette when she was soon to take time off for pregnancy. The band called Floor and said, yeah, how about you fly over right now, and BTW please learn 15 songs in 48 hours. She did, pulled of the miracle concert in Seattle, Oct 1, 2012. The linked video is the last song of the tour, when a little thing with 5 of the best metal vocalists…… kzbin.info/www/bejne/hojYl2B-oZZ7nM0si=Ppcg1SCkHnJ1-3Om

[@Venomroos]

There are 2 basic ways to do the growl one isn't loud and from the top, the other is from the belly button and very loud, She uses the latter, I used to switch to clean vocals just to give my abs a rest. Been listening to Arch Enimy for 20 years and I like both vocalists 🙂

[@SubwaySweden]

Long time since I listened to enemies of the arches, one question, what has the arches ever done to them? or is it the Roman Empire in general they are upset about? ;-)

[@tonycardone990]

I love both of them, but I think because I knew Angela first I will always consider her more the voice of the band. That being said, I can't say anything bad about Alissa. I absolutely love her as well.

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

Yeah I think they are both very talented and charismatic women, and I really do hate the whole ‘who’s best, you have to pick’. But for sure even though I prefer Angela, I have nothing but respect for Alissa. Thanks for watching my dude :)

[@Roller4x4]

🤘🏻 See them live 🤘🏻

[@redguern]

Female metal singers do not need to worry about their looks. They are the most beautiful ladies in music bar none. You can keep all your plastic pop stars.

[@jacqueline23788]

angela is the producer now

[@Touchpadse]

Personally I see Arch Enemy with Angela and Arch Enemy with Alissa as 2 separate bands. I saw them for the first time back in 05 and personally I prefer their sound with Angela as the singer (might be because that's what I first fell in love with) but both singers are great in their own way and tbh I'm glad Alissa went for her style instead of trying to imitate Angela

[@andrewstoops2539]

No frame of reference...not familiar....LOVE YOU THOUGH!!!!

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

Big love Andrew 😊💜

[@andrewstoops2539]

@@SoulSingerDiscovers ❤️❤️❤️

[@MrShowbound]

Johan was most brutal vocals, Angela did much the same with a little different twist, Alyssa has more range as a singer and is the most talented of the 3. Since Angela hired her away from The Agnonst I'd say Alyssa has her stamp of approval. They don't usually use Alyssa's abilities in Arch Enemy but if they're going to do an 80's metal throwback like Handshake the cleans work for the power metal parts of the song. Nita and Alyssa kill it on The Wolf You Feed.

[@FlatulentBreeze]

I think... Therefore I am... I pick Tatiana's vocals above all other female harsh vocals, but if I were to pick a 2nd it wouldn't be anyone from Arch Enemy, although I think they are both good. My pick would be Melissa Bonny from Ad Infintium, Rage of Light, etc... Check out Rage of Light - Mechanicals, Liar Liar (a solo Kamelot cover), Ad Infintium has less harsh vocals but Melissa has a great clean vocals voice too. Twilight of the Thunder God (Amon Amarth cover) by Rage of Light is cool as well, I saw Amon Amarth once, they have a viking ship on stage with a dragon that blows fire. Melissa is also known as Queen of the Damned when she features with Warkings. Anyway enjoy!

[@plantdesigns7889]

I agree with Tati. She's beautiful, but it's not put in your face. Her vocals bring all the attention. My second would be Courtney LaPlante, not just based on Spiritbox, but her time with IWABO and Unicron. Again, beautiful, but her unique clean style and then rip your face off gutterals take the cake. In my opinion of course.

[@7Link7]

looooooolZl; when yer wrong and jelly, yer wrong and jelly🤷‍♂🤷‍♂🤷‍♂

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

Awwww Did I hurt your ickle feelings cos I was talking about your favourite singer? Awwww poor baby. Maybe the internet isn’t for you princess 💋😂

[@vjollila96]

from quick googling it seems like angela is still with the band but in management role

[@YT-AIRSOFTEK]

Hi Melissa love ure videos , my take on angela vs alissa is : angela is the good old arch enemy we loved and alissa is the evolution of the band imo. As an ex singer myself i have to say the girl got alot of skills and alot of control on her singing , and she's also so beautiful ... wish u a merry christmas and keep up those great videos :P

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

Oh yeah Alissa is super talented there is no doubt and whilst I definitely enjoy Angela more, I realise it’s a hard choice. Both wonderful. Thank you so much for watching my dude! I really appreciate your support. Merry Christmas 😊💜🎄

[@Jota666]

Arch enemy with alissa became another "the agonist", Angela is where Arch Enemy really is a melodic DEATH METAL band

[@hisshadow9525]

Alissa❤

[@matthewgoodA1206]

According to some, Angela chose Alyssa as the vocalist to assume lead duties after stepping down as frontwoman. It’s said she (Angela) wanted to shift towards the management/business side of the band as well as focus on her family. And I get that. I suppose to me Angela was perhaps a touch more distinctive, or at least gave the band a more signature vocal sound. Though I have no complaints about Alyssa’s vocal abilities. It just seems like, yes, there’s too much attention directed towards her appearance and people over-emphasize it. I’m not as interested in a woman’s perceived beauty (though I can enjoy it) as much as her musicianship. It matters more. (Or it should.) If a model can’t carry a tune then what’s the point. But I still have to wish Arch Enemy great success in the end.

Melisa - I must ask for forgiveness! I missed Your reaction yesterday and experiencing it just now. I have absolutely NO excuse, except a redoubtable man cold. Am I forgiven? By the way - I love your hair today.

[@KC_rocka]

Awesome reaction, I do like Angela more but Alissa is great too, please react to Vintersea and their song Befallen, they're another amazing band with a wicked female vocalist.

[@superfbomb9054]

I don't like to compare Angela vs. Alissa... Angela is the Queen and Alissa is the Princess... Both are great.. yeah... Angela is a total bad ass and Alissa is a babe... But both are great... And let's face it... If you were this band and had to replace Angela what are you going to do ... Your not going to find another one like that... I think Alissa was a lucky find

[@digitalspecter]

I so get what you're saying about .. err.. stylistic choices here. That hairflip was on point :D I always found Angela attractive.. because of her presence and energy. Yes she's beautiful too but that wasn't the point, not what they were "selling". It felt like it was more about music, energy, power, the whole.. not superficial attributes of one person. I'm not sure I like this..

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

Yeah it’s a weird one isn’t it. Definitely think Alyssa does a great job but Angela is my gal 😂 thanks for watching my dude 💜😊

[@peterfrohlund1638]

Arch Enemy is one hell of a band, everyone in the band current or before are amazing musicians and a wet dream for any band... Angela or Alissa? not a choice becasue they are two different people with different skills ans styles... about "looks" well if you have it use it, if there is no talent just looks thats just sad, but if both... dear lord go bananas its a win win, why? thats just the world we live in for better or worse, and there is no shame in being proud of your hard work both with skills and the time and effort thats put in to look good and being in shape (Y) :) i wisch you would check out "the watcher" official video shoot live from Wacken open air 2022, about 80 000 in the crowd, there you would se the power of A-E and why they are so big and popular :)

[@Exhumed.Consumed]

Arch Enemy fan here since 2000. “Beast of Man” introduced me to extreme metal and the first four albums are one of my musical happy places. I do wish the camera had a little less male gaze on Alyssa in the videos, but it’s not a million miles away from the sexualized promo shoots they did with Angela in the early 00s. They pitched her as dangerous sexy then too, and I think it’s repeating with Alyssa. I do love both of their performances and styles and can appreciate the differences. Don’t feel a need to pit them against each other, especially since they are both monsters live. (I love Johan Liiva’s studio vocals, but live was always much weaker). Anyhow, I’ll just round this out by observing that Michael’s solo in “Handshake With Hell” really feels like a hybrid cannibalization of the solo from “Fields of Desolation” and something from their mid-00s albums.

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

Yeah I should be clear I don’t think they should ever be pitted against each other, they are for sure both incredibly talented. I get what you mean it is absolutely. The male gaze in that video is so clumsy as well. I haven’t seen the photo shoots with Angela from the 00s. Do you think in Metal that women always have been heavily sexualised and if not, can you think of a good example of when a women hasn’t needed to be very sexy/beautiful/super femme? That’s interesting about the solo I’ll check out these other tunes. Thanks so much for taking the time to watch and comment. I really appreciate it 😊💜

[@Exorcismer]

You should listen to The Agonist when Alissa was in it. As awesome as Arch Enemy is, she doesnt get to use her full vocal range in it, but thats just how melodic death metal is.

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

I will do :)

[@Exhumed.Consumed]

Her acapella performance of “Swan Lake” with the Agonist is amazing.

[@Exorcismer]

@@Exhumed.Consumed Havent heard that, gotta check it out :)

[@JariJuslin]

You are on point with there being a significant difference between Angela and Alissa on how they present themselves. Angela is beautiful and hot, but she deliberately used makeup and styling more to make her look badass and rocker than an attractive female singer. Considering she was one of the first if not the first woman to front a band doing only harsh vocals it's also understandable she had to fight her way in inside a quite sexist genre by being "one of the boys". When Arch Enemy chose her they first didn't tell she was a woman, but let fans just hear demo recordings and and only after fans confirmed it sounded good they revealed it was a woman doing to vocals. So Alissa is now in a completely different position, stepping into what was now considered one of the best known bands with leading female harsh vocals. This video also plays on the pop music visuals on purpose, being kind of sarcastic stab at pop music in general and making fun out of the fact they are anything but pop but can do whatever they want. It can also be seen to be kind of middle finger to the music industry - they show Alissa has everything needed to be a top of the line pop singer, but she chooses to do metal instead of following the money. When it comes to harmonizing guitars, that's one of the hallmarks of Arch Enemy and they do it very well. Especially during the era with only harsh vocals, the guitars added the melodic backdrop fans could sing to when vocals did not.

[@kennymccann3316]

Alissa wins hands down in my opinion and her looks have nothing to with it. Fact she is attractive is a bonus. When i first started listening to them i didnt even know what they looked like, being honest i didnt know what she sounded like either. Alissa brings more to the band than Angela, yes i know Angela is still the manager but she PICKED Alissa personally so that speaks volumes in my opinion too.

[@annmariemills1554]

If you haven't reacted to the band Ad Infinitum yet I would love to request them. I just found them myself and would love to get your expertise on Melissas voice! I thinknyou should just do it anyway because of her namesake❤😉😉😉😉Was that that enough ass kissing??😂😂😂Love ya❤❤❤thanks

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

Thank you Ann Marie!! 💜💜💜

[@fredmoucatel2058]

Alyssa is definitely a very talented vocalist . But I am a Angela fan , nobody brings the raw power like Angela and on that note Angela is also very beautiful and she is Sexy without trying ,but her first job is fronting the band with her unparalleled vocal ability . Again taking nothing from Alyssa , this is like comparing apples and oranges plenty like either but one is your favorite and that is Angela for me \m/ Angela roars like a lioness !!!

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

Yeah I think all of this is fair. Both very talented women. I am the same in that I think Angela is great, I definitely prefer her. Thanks for watching Fred :)

[@fuselpeter5393]

I really like your videos and your humor and I second your opinion about harsh vocals all the way through. That way of mixing clean vocals in these songs is not my favorite. Please don't mind one suggestion from me. If you could place the uh ehrm thing you're reading your notes from someway different that would be an improvement, because your eye movement to the side is very obvious. ^^'

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

Thanks Peter! So I’m not reading anything I just get a bit bored of staring at the camera but I’ll bare that in mind 😂

[@dawihard6897]

If you hearing me, im just recomend for antoher reaction from female singing, actually from your basic vocal on opera, please react singing in my country her name ISYANA SARASVATI with the song MY MISTERY, thanks 🙏

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

Thank you! I’ll check it out 😊

[@dawihard6897]

@@SoulSingerDiscovers thankss for hearing me 😁

[@ArchieArpeggio]

I prefer Angela more than Alissa. Alissa sure has pretty clean vocals, but i don´t think clean vocals should be in Arch Enemy. I´ve listened Arch Enemy from the begining and band for me is more about the guitars than the vocals. But there is something that just doesn´t work for me anymore. I bought every reckord until Alissa joined the band. I would also rather take Christopher Amott back to the band and kick Jeff Loomis out. Loomis is great player and can play very well for sure, but i like more Christophers style and how well hes brother Michael played together.

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

Yeah I think it’s totally valid when people prefer certain players. Music is so personal so it’s silly when some people think we should all agree. Especially on singers as they are so specific to that one person. Thanks for watching my dude 😊💜

[@ArchieArpeggio]

@@SoulSingerDiscovers Yes and there is also big difference do you just listen the music compairing to people that can play some intrument, sing and compose music. When you have musically knowledge and you can analyze that music differently, you sure listen it differently than basic listener that doesn´t basicly know nothing. They just listen how something sounds in to the ears and i listen technics that are used in the stucture of the song and how geniously those have been used in the song. Of course the over all sound is important too and by compunding those skills that everyone have in a band effects what kind of song structures you will hear. Also good vocals are one more instrument in the band if it has some charisma and power. Everybody brings something in to the band and if there are changes in the group you will hear it from the composing and how well things fit together. Everytime some members have switched the style developes in some new direction. Sometimes it´s good sometimes it´s bad. Just like when Angela joined in the band, it changed to more melodic direction and same happened when Alissa joined and after Jeff joined in the band. But still i like Arch Enemy but it sure have softened alot from the begining.

[@mikeh6286]

I don't mind Alissa's heavy vocals nor the looks. But I really dislike this song in particular. Not for the instrumentals, not the heavy vocals but for the type of cleans and that it's the title track. It's like saying "this is what we're about now". The Arch Enemy moniker has always kept a certain standard going back 27 years. What's more annoying is that the band gets judged on only this song now when they don't really sound like this 99% of the time. It's like saying "I've heard Disturbed" after only listening to Sound of Silence. Anyway, it's a bold move and perhaps could backfire. Let's hope it works out. Even if I'll stop listening to their new style stuff I hope that they won't stop making classic Arch stuff like all the other tracks on this album. Preferably a bit heavier even. 😊 What Alissa and Angela have in common is that they're friendly and kind (when not pressured) offstage and then use the stage to vent steam. It's a beautiful transformation. I'm tired of beautiful delicate angels performing.

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

The last sentence of this comment should be on a T-shirt 😊

[@antondzajajurca7797]

For me Alisa has no charisma like for instance Angela had or for instance Tatiana from Jinjer has.. Technically I have no problems with her singing.

[@Sayuku_P]

AWG used to be my favourite vocalist for decades, I discovered her in late 2009(and favourist artist period), especially during her The Agonist's era (rip to this band btw, they disbanded not too long ago), her lyricism, her cleans, and even her screams were better during this era in my opinion, she had much more input and experimented much more in this band than in Arch Enemy (in just one song from the album Lullabies for the dormant mind she has much more diverse screaming and growl techniques than every albums she did in AE since 2014 (I recommend The Tempest, The Banshee's scream, the siren's song)), and even if I'm still a fan of her, it saddens me to say that imo she killed 2 bands, she was better with TA, and AE was better with Angela, the only good thing is that I discovered Vicky Psarakis, great vocalist and human being. I find myself listening much more to Roots of all evil than any albums they released with Alissa. To me, (especially live, and especially nowadays), it's more and more about being poseur-ish, flashy outfits, than delivering the song in the best way possible...The only exception I can think of is their concert in Japan 2015, to me the live where she has the most powerful screams. Sorry for the long text hehe, but I hope I was able to make my point understandable lolol. Great analysis btw!

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

This is a great comment. I totally understand what you’re saying. It’s hard isn’t it because we all understand how important aesthetics are to bands and how the look does matter quite a lot. I guess it’s striking the balance though. I would have loved to have seen them in Japan. She’s certainly got pipes for sure. Thank you so much for taking the time to watch and comment my dude! 😊💜💪

[@michaelkarlsson5966]

For me, this is not my thing. I have nothing against female vocalists or female musicians but this doesn't work for on any level. I really love black and death metal but I don't like Alyssa or Angela (and I don't like their first vocalist they had either, sorry I forgot his name!). But I can live with the vocals. My biggest no-no with Arch Enemy is the music and the production. Music is like very bland watered down heavy metal, competent but boring as hell, guitar solos are just point-less noisy showing off. Production is too clean and "fat". Overproduced to say the least. No rawness anywhere just a giant bowl of fluffy cream. All this is my opinion of course, I respect the band all their fans, but it's not for me. I also think that the "look at my sexy tummy" is not only passè but mostly sexist. She is beautiful and hot but it's very blatant and in your face. Kind of like Britney Spears (yes, I'm old, I don't know what the flavour of the day "sexy" "singer" is anymore, haha!) Sorry for rambling!

[@UltimateGamerCC]

personally i enjoy both Angela and Alyssa at the vocals, and i definitely dont think there needs to be this bias between one and the other, as i feel they are both incredible vocalists in their own right. the only AE fans that are wrong are the OG vocalist stans.

[@nightshade7240]

The truth about this song is it's not Arch Enemy. You could remove Alyssa's part and just have the instrumental but there are so many weird bits to this song that feel like a different band and it's Alyssa's vocals. I don't really like this song. I might if it was in another band but you have to stay true to the feel and sound, otherwise you become Metallica and no one wants that. I'll give Alyssa her due but I think she fit the band The Agonist far more than she did Arch Enemy. Angela is the voice of Arch Enemy, not from a who did it better perspective but who fits the music and the feel of the band more. It's like Matt Barlow and Iced Earth. They've also had multiple singers but none of them fit the music the way Matt did. Alyssa is still a phenomenal singer. Check out Krysta Cameron from Iwrestledabearonce and empyrean lights. Jill Janus from Huntress was a beautiful woman but it was all about how unique her vocals were, her wild cat screams are some of my favourite and led me down the path to learning how to make similar sounds.

[@oggreek9643]

When Angela decided to retire, they did not have to replace her with another female singer, but did so entirely for marketing purposes (I believe). I'd like to see the list of names who auditioned to replace Angela (bet not a single male was considered). Arch Enemy have definitely become more commercial ever since Alysa joined (as evidenced by the introduction of clean vocals).

[@FaceEatingOwl]

This song is lame.

[@nogodsnomasters666]

Arch Enemy was a great band, but then they went pop. Jeff Loomis (Nevermore) ,perhaps the greatest guitar player in the world, is neutered by this band.

[@SoulSingerDiscovers]

Yeah it was a little too tame for me in the vox. Thanks for watching my dude 💜😊