Analgesia - Saint Dreamers ~ Album review

Analgesia, a symphonic metal band that emerged "from the ashes of Morocco," was formed by 5 members: Youssra Atmen (Lead Vocals), Ahmed Zine (Guitars, Songwriter), Hassan Bourih (Synthesizers), Mounir Houaoura (Bass Guitar, Violin), and Samir Houaoura (Drums). After their 3rd album "Beyond Illusion," which is full of messages and some provocative expressions, and which I call the awakening album, they're back with their 4th full-length album "Saint Dreamers," which contains 10 tracks + a cover.

The album is somewhat a sequel to the previous one; there are, of course, differences in terms of music as the band's philosophy has always been to "explore and never repeat," but they maintained their originality and simplicity.

Many different genres were played on this album like progressive symphonic, power, doom, atmospheric, gothic, folk, hard rock... showcasing the different colors, topics, and moods within it!

Starting with "Wellhord," which is my favorite. Noticeable synths & orchestrations express the lyrics, which are about the media and how it enslaves our minds and kills the creative side of humans. The second song, "Story End," is the most powerful song on the album, with a powerful orchestral intro, fast drum beats, and some grunts to add more depth to the song. The lyrics are a 17th-century operetta. The 3rd song, "Deliver Me," is a dramatic and atmospheric song full of sensations just before moving to the folkloric side of the band with "Fallen Beauty." The African soul is obvious in this song, showing how the band can easily transition from genre to genre and theme to theme without compromising their originality. The 5th song of the album is "Still in My Mind," a dramatic modern rock song that deals with the loss of a parent. A relaxing moment with the instrumental remake of "Men on the Earth," followed by "Tell Me," a mix of gothic, doom, and some jazz. Yousra's incredible voice revives it. A simple song, but magical! "Motherland" is a letter in its literary form, as the band described it, with a melancholic atmosphere carrying a meaningful message; here again, we find some happiness with "Tonight" just before we encounter the cover of "One" by Metallica. I admit that this song has never been more atmospheric and sensual. Then comes the last song, "Heroes and Poets," a theatrical, magical atmosphere in which you conclude your journey carrying with you some very beautiful melodies, a lot of hope, and emotions.

Analgesia reminds one of Nightwish in some ways, although they are unique enough not to be compared... So if you're a fan of OLD Nightwish, this album is for you!

To get a free and legal download link, send an email to the band here: analgesia.contact@gmail.com

                                    Rating : 8/10

Vesperia - An Olden Tale~ Album review

This time, let's delve into the realm of folk metal! Enter a band that truly embodies the essence of "FOLK METAL"! Formed by four talented and seasoned musicians: Morgan Rider (Vocals, Bass), Casey Elliott (Guitar), Frankie Caracci (Guitar), and last but not least, Cory Hofing (Drums) in 2005. Following their full-length album "Vinland" in 2011, they unveiled a new opus entitled "AN OLDEN TALE". They are VESPERIA, an Epic Viking Metal band hailing from Vinland... or as we know it, Canada!

Let's start with the title "AN OLDEN TALE" - an intelligent choice, I must say! It's a title that intrigues listeners, piquing their curiosity about the album's content, yet withholding the tales within. It was the very first thing that compelled me to immediately dive into the album! A delightful suspense for lovers of tales ;)

The album consists of nine songs (including the outro and a cover) that cater to various tastes with their epic lead guitar solos, amazing riffs, accompanied by symphonic, orchestral elements, and folk and Celtic melodies! This unique blend creates an atmospheric and epic musical journey that immerses you in every story and scenario! As I mentioned, it's likely to appeal to fans of melodic death metal, as well as folk or symphonic metal enthusiasts! Regarding the vocals, they employ a variety of styles, including melodic and brutal death metal vocals, clean vocals, and, of course, choirs to convey the sequence of events, as the album delves into old battles and heroic tales, allowing you to truly grasp the depth of these narratives!

Overall, "An Olden Tale" is a commendable album. One can clearly observe the band's progression from one release to another, and I have no doubt they will continue to refine their skills, making me confident that their next release will surpass even this one!

Regardless, if you're in the mood for some folk metal and eager to embark on a journey through the ages, then this band is tailor-made for you, and it's high time you explored "An Olden Tale"!

Check out the band here


                                    Rating : 8/10