Sonata Arctica

Silence

Addictive and powerful

Review Score:

(8/10)
Finland's premiere Progressive Power Metaller's have made us wait long enough for another full length effort but here it is, in all its majestic glory. Those of us who got off heartily by their debut expected nothing but something equal to or better to it and Silence certainly should rouse no legitimate gripes. The band come roaring back with a sparkling melodic rembrandt of musical artistry that should put all other competing bands on notice.
SONATA ARTICA are masters of their craft and, with Silence, exhibit further the originality and individualistic nature of their music that makes them so effective as a unit. Silence is not a huge departure from Ecliptica but its clear that in some respects the former is a move towards a more commercial and accessible standing. Silence still clings firmly to the band's original sound and style but several tracks on it do show a kinder, more aesthetic side to the band. This is done through the repeated heavy infusion of piano intros and slow, moody vocal serenades. This makes Silence as much as a Heavy Rock album as it does a soaring melodic Power Metal one. The two styles are meshed together flawlessly and while I prefer the harder side of the band I do admit to the catchy flavor of the slower and softer parts.

Highlights include the opener which relies on its fabulous chorus. The pinnacle of the album comes near the end; "Wolf & Raven", which is high-velocity shredder with screaming leads and intense vocals. These attributes seem to be the way the band reach their audience; amazingly catchy choruses and lead playing. The cohesiveness and instrumental interplay on Silence are virtually flawless and though I thought the album could have benefited even more from more tracks like "Wolf & Raven", the end result is still powerful and majestic

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