The Band

Bella, Xander and Jace met one night over Rocky Road ice cream in 2004 and found a common dream. With an idea and a rehearsal space in a Chicago warehouse, the three began recording song sketches for an album. Their friendship and their passion for the music deepened and ideas became finished songs. As a three member band, with a musical lineup of vox, electric violin, lead and rhythm guitars, keys, bass guitar, hand drums and kit drums, Bella, Xander and Jace wrote, performed, produced and recorded a full length CD. In late 2005, Graceful Abyss released their debut album, In Memoriam. The 11 track album is a cohesive collection of songs about hurt, pain, loss, and redemption.

Graceful Abyss exists somewhere between the worlds of Hard Rock, World, and Alternative Metal with a combination of dark lyrics and female vocals, electric violin, and tribal hand drumming. Xander Shrike's violin playing has more in common with electric guitar than with its acoustic cousin. The hand drums and tribal rhythms performed by Jace Enn add a raw, primal feel. The sound is given its focus by Bella Morgen's voice and lyrics. Often compared to Grace Slick in her sound, she points to Janis Joplin and Janis Ian as inspirations for her lyric style. The result is music rich in imagery and emotional depth.

Reviewers have likened their music to a mix of Tool and Dead can Dance, referring to the blend of heavy instrumentation with layered rhythms and strong melodies. The band sites influences such as Pink Floyd, Metallica, Sevendust, and Rammstein.

The Name

The name "Graceful Abyss" is inspired by a concept from Henry James' short story, "The Beast in the Jungle". Everyone must struggle to come to terms with his own internal hell in order to learn the lessons necessary to achieve a state of grace. This struggle is portrayed throughout the lyrics and music of the band.

The Members

Bella Morgen: Vocals, Keys

Xander Shrike: Violin, Guitars, Bass

Jace: Drums, Percussion