Sonata Arctica

Silence

Not quite their best, but still amazing nonetheless!

Review Score:

(10/10)
Sonata Arctica's sophomore effort, 'Silence' (2001) shows true signs of maturity for such a young group. True, they did show this on their debout, 'Ecliptica' (1999), but it's shown just as well here. Though this is not quite up to par with the 2003 masterpiece 'Winterheart's Guild,' 'Silence' showcases the band's most synth-driven album to date (at least of the ones that are available here currently-'Reckoning Night' (2004) isn't scheduled for a US release until February 2005.)
The band is one of the most talented progressive/power metal bands Europe has seen in a long time, and it is easy to see a major influence from fellow Finns Stratovarius and a bit of Children of Bodom as well (who are also Finnish.) Singer Tony Kakko is amazing, he sounds like the perfect balance of Timo Kotipelto and an classically trained tenor. Guitarist Jani Liimatainen may dish out some very fast and simplistic riffs, but his solos are top notch. Bassist Marko Paasikoski is extremely quick much of the time (mainly because he plays with a pick), but he is still extremely good. Keyboardist Mikko Harkkin's fast fingers are practically the melodies that the band depend on for this album. His solos are amazing, as are the sound they produce. Drummer Tommy Portimo is lightning fast on that double bass part, and his snare, cymbal, etc. techniques are great too.
And now, of course the highlights: "Weballergy" may be the fastest song Sonata Arctica ever did, and the synth part is amazing...but the solos (guitar and keyboard) are really where it's at. "Black Sheep" is not quite as fast as "Weballergy," but the harmonizing method between the keys and guitar is insane. And "Wolf and Raven" is also extremely fast, and the intro/midpoint shredding technique is astounding, by far my favorite on the record. Fans of bands like Stratovarius, Children of Bodom, Thunderstone, Nightwish, and Kotipelto (among others) should definetely give this a try.

"Rock Forever!"-Judas Priest

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