Review Summary: Put on some retro goggles and take the plunge.
Amongst the hoard of symphonic metal albums released in 2009, New Shores does not stand as a landmark memory. It’s not a bad album at all, it just follows the pattern of similar bands, while barely adding flavours of their own. Taken as its thing though, there’s standout moments. For example, The Incredibles has a beautifully sung/harmonized chorus, and My Hardest Walk has a solid drive with static guitars. It’s an overlooked album to be sure, although not a necessary listen either. Many bands of this era had a distinct sound, and Lunatica just sounds like a recycled product of its time.
The album has a small identity crisis, preventing the band from sounding assured of their confidence. They clearly attempted to fit in with the gothic/symphonic metal crowd with a song like The Chosen Ones, sounding like Xandria meets Lacuna Coil. The other half of their personality is borrowed from 90s chill rock, with certain tones reminiscent of Christmas tunes. Their ability to pull off two styles easily is impressive, but they are opposite sides of the coin.
You must take this album at face value, because comparisons to other bands will make the band’s efforts look flat. It’s a great rock album though: perhaps just take it as that. The drums are sure loud enough to start the boogies. On the symphonic side though, forget about it, and the riffs also lack force. With some better production, and a couple more bangers, this album may have been something to remember.
Fans of synth-y, generic symphonic metal may find a hidden gem in this album. The singer is great throughout, and hardly needing auto-tune, even when backed with a soft instrumental section. Also, when the riffs get their engines started, a great time is involved. This is a great album to put on and relax to, while breathing in the Nightwish-y fumes. Lunatica’s New Shores is totally worth the return visit via speedboat. It’s not a perfect album, but it holds the vibes symphonic fans salivate over.
