Everyone it seems these days wants a piece of the Nightwish-styled Melodic Metal action, some grasp for something they will never replicate and others manage to show that it’s just not the Finnish masters that can do justice to the genre. Angel Nation, the melodic metal band founded by the classically trained Finnish singer Elina Siirala (of Leaves’ Eyes) are one of the bands that certainly can reach for the heights and grasp the tight,and this their long-awaited second album ‘Aeon’ proves that he crown has a number of worthy contenders.
‘Aeon’ is an album that smoulders with passion but also knows how to rock and whilst openers ‘Burn the Witch’ and the excellent ‘Blood is on Your Hands’ explore the softer textures of the genre ‘Breathe Again’ ramps things up emotionally and sonically whilst keeping that mid-paced flame flickering.
If there is an issue with the album you could argue that it is very similarly textured and very one-paced, but when your hear the delicate touch of tracks like the balladic ‘Wonder Who You Are’ burst into flame all is forgiven.
Highlights here come thick and fast but it’s the softer moments that tend to win, like the operatic and beautifully sung ‘Music Plays’ which shines even though like on most of the tracks here the guitar is just a little subdued in the mix. Elsewhere ‘Free’ adds another fine operatic moment and harnesses some dirty vocals whist ‘Fireflies’ flows like silk and closer ‘Destination’ ties it all together with a nice atmospheric, growing, brooding track that again bursts into flame. This may not have all the bluster of Nightwish it harnesses the more subdued and truly beautiful aspects of the genre like few others can.
This is a great release.
Angel Nation line-up: Elina Siirala – Vocals | Julia B Cadau – Bass | Lucas Williamson – Drums | Sonny Antoniou – Guitar
Website: http://www.angelnationofficial.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/angelnationm
