This September 2025, Le Brin de Zinc was kicking off the new season with its usual original programme, which was sure to delight local metalheads who are often snubbed by the big bands that only stop in Paris. Headlining this Sunday evening is the Bulgarian melodic metal band Sevi, led by the ever-charismatic Svetlana Bliznakova. Although the band has an excellent reputation and a solid fanbase at home, this will be their first appearance on French stages. Accompanying them on the day were two local bands already well known to Brin de Zinc audiences: Talvienkeli and JC Jess.
Talvienkeli
The band evolves in a symphonic and progressive universe and has released three albums: Blooming (2014), Hybris (2017) and In a World Full of Clouds (2024). Since the latter release, the band’s lineup has changed, with a new singer performing on this occasion. The sound was therefore different from what was expected, with a new, less operatic voice which may have somewhat overshadowed certain melodic lines. Of their short set, their rendition of the ballad “L’Héautontimoroumenos” stood out in particular: a beautiful interpretation of Baudelaire’s poem whose unpronounceable title comes from Ancient Greek and means “the Self-Tormentor.”
J.C Jess
Even though J.C Jess hasn’t released any new music recently (especially since the drummer and guitarist joined Amon Sethis), it’s always a pleasure to see them perform. They have a unique energy, playing a direct style of metal with a Rock ‘N Roll twist that remains extremely effective through the years.
Sevi
Although, unfortunately, the venue was not full on Sunday evening, Sevi was greeted by a very enthusiastic audience. With four albums released since 2012, the band has had time to establish its status and define its style. Released in 2023, the band’s latest album, Genesis, is a gem of melodic and alternative metal. The band’s strength comes first from its effective and varied compositions, but also and above all from Svetlana’s voice: expressive and versatile, it is at once catchy, powerful and emotional, with a wide range; she is as comfortable in the low notes as she is in the stratospheric high notes.
The setlist for the evening focused mainly on Genesis their most recent and accomplished album to date. Among the first tracks was “Ghost,” the album’s opening track with its bittersweet chorus. The catchy, almost pop “Higher Than The Stars” also made for a great moment. For more in-your-face tracks with a disturbing fairy-tale atmosphere, ‘The Spell’ is also one of the highlights of the latest album.
As usual at Le Brin de Zinc, there were no complaints about the sound: it remained clear throughout the set and highlighted the rendition of the songs. After enthusiastic applause, Sevi offered the eponymous song “Genesis” as the final track. An excellent choice, as it is an epic ending.
Throughout their set, the audience was captivated, and regulars exchanged appreciative glances. One thing is certain: Brin de Zinc and its patrons would be delighted to see Sevi again. If you are in England in October and November, don’t hesitate to go and see Sevi!
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