Xandria's Eclipse: A Journey Through Symphonic Metal's Glory Days
In the vast landscape of metal music, Xandria's latest release, Eclipse, takes us on a familiar yet captivating journey. With a history spanning over two decades and a revolving door of lead vocalists, Xandria has crafted an album that pays homage to the genre's greats while carving its own path.
The Nightwish Influence
One cannot help but notice the strong influence of Nightwish on Eclipse. From the grandiose orchestrations to the unintelligible chants, Xandria seems to have taken a page from the Finnish masters' playbook. The album's thesis, "what if Imaginaerum had breakdowns?", sets the tone for a unique blend of symphonic power metal and metalcore-inspired moments.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the way Xandria incorporates these elements. "The Shannon's Home" is a prime example, with its folky wonder and nostalgic charm. It's a testament to the band's ability to create something fresh within a well-established genre.
Heaviness and Balance
Eclipse showcases a genuine heaviness often lacking in symphonic power metal. The inclusion of metalcore-style breakdowns and hoarse shouting adds a layer of intensity. Drummer Dimitrios Gatsios shines throughout, providing an exceptional and lively performance.
Personally, I appreciate how Xandria strikes a balance between the bombastic orchestration and heavy metal riffs. It's a delicate dance, and they pull it off with finesse. The breakdowns, though not always natural-feeling, highlight the skill and presence of the guitarists.
Emulating Idols
Xandria's emulation of their idols is both a strength and a weakness. On one hand, they confidently recreate a sound that has influenced the genre. "The Shannon's Home" and "Eclipse" are prime examples of this, with their catchy choruses and orchestral hits.
However, this emulation can also lead to a sense of predictability. After nine albums, one might expect Xandria to define their own unique sound. Eclipse feels restrained, as if the band is playing it safe. Songs like "The Grand Delusion" and "Wave of Tanis" showcase this, with their standard tempos and over-the-top choruses.
A Talented Band, a Familiar Sound
Make no mistake, Xandria is a talented band. Their skill and execution are impeccable. But the question remains: is it enough to simply emulate a sound that has already been mastered by others?
In my opinion, Eclipse leaves me wanting more. While it's a strong symphonic power metal album, it lacks the freshness and ambition that could truly set Xandria apart. It's a comfortable journey through familiar territory, but one that fails to challenge or surprise.
Final Thoughts
Xandria's Eclipse is a solid offering, but it doesn't push the boundaries. It's a safe bet for fans of the genre, but it may leave those seeking innovation slightly disappointed. Perhaps with time, Xandria will find their own unique voice and truly eclipse their influences.
