Symphonic Power Metal
Steamhammer
Release Date – October 11th 2024
Line Up:
Siegfried Samer – Vocals
Simon Saito – Guitar
Mat Plekhanov – Guitar
Herbert Glos – Bass
Chris Auckenthaler – Drums
Manuel Hartleb – Keyboards
Tracklist:
1 – From The New World (1584)
2 – Dreamchasers
3 – Silver Blood
4 – Dragon Of The Sea
5 – Ill Met By Moonlight
6 – Perfect Storm
7 – Hic Svnt Dracones
8 – The World Serpent
9 – The Einherjer (What Dreams May Come)
10 – Twilight Of The Gods
11 – Beyond The Rainbow Bridge
12 – The Untold Story (Albion Online)
Prepare to be drawn into a life at sea with the latest offering from Dragony. Formed in 2007 by former members of Visions Of Atlantis and Orden Ogan, the band started as The Dragon Project before shortening their name to Dragony three years later. This is their fifth full-length album and their first in four years, and it’s been well worth the wait.
The opener, “From The New World (1584),” is a melodic, symphonic blast that sets the stage for the rest of the album. “Dreamchasers” follows, surging forward with full momentum. The dual vocals between Siegfried Samer and Ambre Vourvahis from Xandria are a highlight, complemented by fluid solos from Saito and Plekhanov.
“Silver Blood” continues the cinematic pirate adventure with a powerful, fist-pumping rhythm. The spidery riff of “Dragon Of The Sea” takes us into rougher waters with another fine metal shanty. “Ill Met By Moonlight” is even more epic, with a huge choral line and a driving armada of orchestration and riffage.
“Perfect Storm” brings a modern edge with stabbing synths on the intro before transitioning into traditional metal territory. “Hic Svnt Dracones” (“Here Be Dragons”) has an eerie, dramatic start, reminiscent of a Disney film, before launching into classic power rock.
“The World Serpent” showcases Saito and Plekhanov’s technical prowess, while “The Einherjer (What Dreams May Come)” brings a Celtic/folk feel. “Twilight Of The Gods” features an ’80s-inspired synth riff over crunchy guitars before settling into a heavy rocker. “Beyond The Rainbow Bridge” is another fist-pumper with a choppy riff that prepares you to board, land, and pillage.
“The Untold Story (Albion Online)” is an epic conclusion, seemingly drawing on everything the band has to offer. This album is accessible to anyone, with something for everyone to enjoy. It boasts huge riffs, pounding drums, dramatic orchestration, subtle nuances, catchy melodies, and world-class performances, particularly from Siegfried Samer.
Dragony’s latest album is their best yet. The songs tell vivid stories, and the music reflects the moods within. It’s a stunning album with great songs, great sounds, and great performances.
Written by: Smudge
Ratings: 9/10
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