Review Summary: This is the year for Xandria.
Xandria’s latest release in their extensive discography of symphonic metal treats spins their formula once more. Importantly, their new vocalist Ambre Vourvahis is introduced, and what an introduction it is. Rather than Xandria’s typical style of operatic singing, Ambre’s tone is more fitting for poppier tracks. One might think this would drastically transform the band’s sound, and in a way it does. Xandria sound modernized and refreshed, which is something they’ve needed for ages.
Despite the new vocalist, and poppier tracks, Xandria’s core sound remains intact. Namely, fist pumping anthemic tracks are at the forefront with a massive symphonic edge. Their symphonic front is reminiscent of movie soundtracks this time around, and much fuller sounding than their previous album. You’ll first discover when listening to this album, that nothing - aside from operatic vocals - is taken away from Xandria’s distinct sound. Ear worm, punchy choruses are still the name of the game, but with the inclusion of Ambre I find their choruses even more stunning. That’s not a knock against the previous vocalist, but rather noting Ambre’s fitting voice, as well as her beautiful yet strong tone. It’ll certainly give Ad Infinitum’s singer a run for her money.
Xandria sound a little more like Epica than Nightwish to my ear, the growled segments and movie likened score have that effect. Of course, one could make comparisons to other bands all day long. Xandria are simply another cog in the wheel of symphonic metal that keeps on going. Still, Xandria continue to have something new to bring to every alteration of modern symph. metal. In this iteration, Xandria have seamlessly blended epic bombast with poppy tracks in a way that many bands attempt, and fail to conjure. It’s too early to call it, but I wouldn’t be surprised if this is one of the strongest contenders for symphonic metal album of the year.
One leaves this album feeling like they were part of a special event. It’s not simply the closing epic (Asteria) that produces this swelling of accomplishment, it is the entire experience. Instrumentally, the album is a gold mine, with the drummer giving the performance of a lifetime. The production is immaculate, and the new lead singer is absolutely riveting. This is easily one of Xandria’s best albums, and if that isn’t a selling point I don’t know what is.
