SONATA ARCTICA are back! I know that sounds silly as they never went away, but they have delivered their best album in years. One of Finland’s original power metal legends, these guys have a lot of brilliant material, as well as some outright weird stuff. The group’s complex and ambitious sound is quite remarkable. Led by vocalist and songwriter Tony Kakko, SONATA ARCTICA‘s music continues to evolve, embracing traditional heavy metal elements with power influences, resulting in a heightened emphasis on melody and intricate song arrangements. Inspired by fellow Finnish bands such as STRATOVARIUS, the group combined their metal core with other elements, including grandiose orchestral scores, symphonic arrangements, and even synthesizers, to add more layers to their sound. The album “Clear Cold Beyond” will be released via Atomic Fire Record/Reigning Phoenix Music on March 8th, 2024.
The opening track “First in Line” sets the stage for SONATA ARCTICA‘s sonic exploration on their latest album. It’s a perfect example of how the band approaches their earlier mentioned mission, as it packs a huge punch from the get-go. The fast-paced drum intro is followed by a melodic yet energetic segment, where orchestral elements blend in with prominent rhythm guitars and roaring bass tones. From the very beginning, it’s evident that the band is pushing boundaries and exploring new sonic territories. Tony Kakko‘s vocals soar above the mix, delivering an impassioned performance that sets the tone for the rest of the album.
“California” follows with its irresistible melodies and anthemic chorus, showcasing SONATA ARCTICA‘s knack for crafting catchy hooks. The song is an ode to the allure of the West Coast, with its sun-drenched beaches and endless possibilities. Keyboardist Henrik Klingenberg shines on this track, adding layers of texture and atmosphere to the band’s trademark sound. “Shah Mat” delves into darker territory, both musically and lyrically. The song’s ominous intro gives way to a barrage of chugging guitars and thunderous drums, creating a sense of tension and unease. Tony Kakko‘s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world on the brink of collapse, while Elias Viljanen’s blistering guitar solo adds a touch of virtuosity to the proceedings.
Continuing with “Dark Empath,” the album’s exploration of darker themes unfolds with its brooding atmosphere and haunting melodies. The song builds slowly, layering lush synths and intricate guitar work to create a sense of depth and complexity. Tony Kakko‘s vocals are filled with longing and regret as he sings of lost love and shattered dreams. “Cure for Everything” offers a moment of introspection with its stripped-down arrangement and heartfelt lyrics. Despite its fast tempo, the song maintains a gentle and mellow vibe, with melodious vocals and a soothing melody that is pleasant to the ears. Tony Kakko‘s emotive vocals take center stage, delivering a performance that resonates with raw emotion and sincerity.
With a slow tempo on acoustic guitar at its start, “A Monster Only You Can’t See” evolves into a dynamic and captivating listening experience. The song combines soaring vocals with intricate instrumentation, gradually building momentum as it unfolds. Its driving rhythm and anthemic chorus are sure to get audiences on their feet, while Tony Kakko‘s impassioned delivery elevates it to another level entirely.
“Teardrops” and “Angel Defiled” further showcase SONATA ARCTICA‘s versatility. The former is a haunting almost-ballad with a slower tempo, featuring emotive storytelling and lyrical prowess. It gradually introduces progressively faster melodic elements, creating a captivating journey for the listener. On the other hand, “Angel Defiled” is a hard-hitting rocker with heavy riffs and a killer guitar solo, demonstrating the band’s ability to deliver high-energy performances. With its poignant lyrics and beautiful melody, “The Best Things” is a heartfelt ballad that tugs at the heartstrings. Tony Kakko‘s vocals are filled with raw emotion as he sings of love lost and lessons learned. Henrik Klingenberg‘s keyboard work is particularly notable as it takes a more upfront role in the arrangement, adding depth and texture to the song and connecting with the audience on a deeply personal level.
Closing the album is “Clear Cold Beyond,” a hauntingly beautiful track that leaves a lasting impression. The song’s ethereal atmosphere and haunting vocals create a sense of otherworldly beauty, as Tony Kakko sings of longing and loss. It’s a fitting end to an album that is as ambitious as it is unforgettable.
Overall, “Clear Cold Beyond” is a bold and ambitious album that sees SONATA ARCTICA embracing change while staying true to their roots. It’s a testament to the band’s enduring legacy and their ability to captivate audiences with their unique blend of power metal and melodic rock. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to their music, “Clear Cold Beyond” is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Written by Peter Jerman
Tracklist
- First In Line
- California
- Shah Mat
- Dark Empath
- Cure For Everything
- A Monster Only You Can’t See
- Teardrops
- Angel Defiled
- The Best Things
- Clear Cold Beyond
Lineup
Tony Kakko – vocals
Elias Viljanen – guitars
Pasi Kauppinen – bass
Henrik “Henkka” Klingenberg – keyboards
Tommy Portimo – drums
Label
Atomic Fire Records/Reigning Phoenix Music
