Released by: Mighty Music

Release Date: January 26th, 2024

Genre: Melodic Heavy Metal

Links: https://www.facebook.com/ManticoraBand/

Line Up:

Kristian Larsen – guitars
Lars F. Larsen – vocals
Stefan Johansson – guitars
Kasper Gram – bass

Tracklist:

1. Winter Solstice
2. Necropolitans
3. Demonday
4. Angel Of The Spring
5. Golem Sapiens
6. Mycelium
7. Beast Of The Fall
8. Equinox
9. Mementopolis
10. Día De Los Muertos

Founded in 1997, Manticora is a Danish band recognized for merging progressive and power metal genres. Their musical style seamlessly incorporates traditional heavy metal elements along with influences from both progressive and power metal. With a notable discography including albums like “Roots of Eternity,” “Hyperion,” and “To Kill to Live to Kill,” Manticora has established a significant presence. As someone who hasn’t fully delved into the magnitude of their back catalog, I can’t help but feel a sense of folly.

After a single exhilarating dive into the latest masterpiece from Denmark’s metal maestros, Manticora, I couldn’t help but kick myself for neglecting their full discography all these years. This album is an absolute beast, an unapologetic avalanche of power, seamlessly weaving melody, darkness, and relentless metal mayhem. Wrap your mind around the fact that these trailblazers have been rocking since 1997, consistently unleashing a sonic storm across Thrash, Prog, Power, Black, Death, and Pure Heavy Metal. While I usually steer clear of comparisons, this feels like witnessing Nevermore transported to the ferocious landscape of 2024 – a powerhouse, to say the least. The sheer intensity pulsating through their music is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

The album kicks off with the juggernaut sounds of “Necropolitans,” an unrelenting force of nature. Lars F. Larsen’s vocals soar with high-power precision, cutting through the air like a blade on a dark night. “Demonday” follows suit, a relentless sonic journey driven by pounding drums, mechanical precision, and tantalizing hints of Doom-esque riffage. The twin guitars join forces in a menacing and fantastical onslaught. Brace yourself for an immersive head-pounding experience when these tracks hit the live stage. The tempo takes a breather with the groovy “Angel of the Spring,” offering a momentary descent into a power ballad-esque realm compared to the thunderous heaviness preceding it. The title track kicks off with a melodic and haunting intro, escalating into a shredding masterpiece that culminates in a wonderfully melodic chorus.

The frenzied interpretations of rhythm persist throughout “Mementopolis,” transitioning from infectious grooves to daunting bass lines, captivating chorus melodies, and escalating monumental fretwork. The thematic intensity of the record only strengthens with greater fervor as it approaches the conclusion.

Manticora’s unparalleled ability to fuse diverse styles into a cohesive and vibrant sound sets them apart. While shades of Nevermore during the “This Godless Endeavor” era or echoes of Symphony X in the power prog realm come to mind, Manticora transcends, perfecting this art. The choruses are not just memorable; they’re etched in your soul. The guitars deliver a punishing yet harmonious onslaught of melody and darkness, and the drums are nothing short of thunderously ear-shattering. The raw production adds a gritty allure, and Jacob Hansen’s masterful touch is the cherry on top. In the grand scheme of things, the technical prowess on display here has left an indelible mark on me, and there’s no doubt it will be a front-runner on many top lists this year. Consider this – it’s only January, and amidst the onslaught of scheduled musical releases, Manticora demands a standing ovation. Raise your Horns Up for Manticora!