I’ve always felt that Cradle of Filth have underutilized Sarah Jezebel Deva’s swoon-inducing vocals, so it follows that I was anticipating Angtoria’s full-length debut in which Deva helms the mic, and as a result, takes center stage. Joined by fellow CoF bandmate Dave Pybus (bass), God Has a Plan for Us All is at first an alluring piece of orchestral metal – heavy on epic, grandiose string and keyboard arrangements that rival similar components found in Bal-Sagoth, Summoning, and many prog/power outfits. However, not even a skill-laden crew is able to save this particular release from being more underwhelming than not.

As stated outright and/or implied, Angtoria are strong musically, and that is where many listeners will glean enjoyment. Ironically, though, I’m not a fan of female-led troupes in which cleanness occupies the forefront, but since Deva sparkles on this recording despite the near absence of operatic vocals, I’m game. Of course Deva will be responsible for the success or failure of this album – to a certain degree – because much of the appeal lies in her area of expertise, and thankfully she turns in an enchanting, enrapturing performance. Unfortunately, the enchantress is also to blame for the lyrics, which are riddled with clichés, filled with cheese, or both. Still, songs such as “I’m Calling” and the lofty “God Has a Plan for Us All” are impossible to resist due to their catchiness and engaging nature. God Has a Plan for Us All then moves into Arabian territory – on “Deity of Disgust” – while simultaneously conjuring numerous elements of Dream Theater and other prog-oriented bands. Again, the music is incredibly layered and brings to mind all things epic, majestic, what have you, so perhaps the reception to Angtoria does not solely rest on the lead singer’s ability to hypnotize the listener.

It’s just a pity the middle and end are considerably less arresting than the beginning. Slower numbers like “The Addiction” and “That’s What the Wise Lady Said” are pedestrian, whereas faster tunes eventually wear thin. And though Angtoria toss in clean, male vocals and growls periodically a la Lacuna Coil, they’re primarily inconsequential. With 12 tracks whose sum is 50 minutes, including a cover of Kylie Minogue’s “Confide in Me,” the album simply loses appeal the longer it lasts. Deva excels, but I have to admit I expected more versatile vocal-work in spite of its ever-present, mesmerizing qualities.