The Halo Effect – March Of The Unheard Review

The Halo Effect returns with their second effort, building on the success of their impressive debut, Days of the Lost. Despite the high expectations, the Swedish death metal legends remained remarkably relaxed. Having witnessed their powerful performance supporting Amon Amarth and Machine Head, it’s clear that their live energy is as electrifying as their studio work.

Conspire to Deceive opens with a melodic guitar line that quickly gives way to a spidery riff. Mikael Stanne’s signature gruff vocals and the tight rhythm section of Peter Iwers and Daniel Svensson create a formidable foundation. The song’s structure recalls Maiden at their peak, with sublime lead breaks and twin guitar fills showcasing the band’s melodic prowess.

Detonate is a heavier and faster track, with Stanne singing the riff and another thunderous Maiden-esque line that is sure to get your head nodding. Our Channel to the Darkness begins with an acoustic intro that sets a serene atmosphere, but soon explodes into a ferocious riff. Niclas Engelin and Jesper Stromblad unleash their guitar prowess, luring the listener in before delivering a powerful onslaught. The band eases up on the breakdown before returning with a dose of Viking death metal on Cruel Perception.

What We Become features another melodic twin guitar line over Svensson’s military snare drumming, leading into another melodic death metal banger. The album includes two musical interludes, This Curse of Silence and Coda, which provide moments of reflection and contrast.

The majestic Forever Astray combines a pounding rhythm with a fiery riff, culminating in a surprising clean vocal performance by Stanne. This showcases his versatility and hints at the brilliance of his work on Cemetery Skyline’s new album. Between Directions opens with a symphonic cello and guitar intro, before settling into a verse and chorus that highlight Stanne’s clean vocals and the band’s powerful string arrangements.

A Death That Becomes Us features a riff reminiscent of In Flames’ Liberation, a nod to the band’s shared history. This great riff is seamlessly integrated into the song’s structure. The Burning Point is another galloping groove monster, driven by Svensson’s heavy hitting.

With a lineup of legendary Swedish melodic death metal musicians, The Halo Effect delivers a truly special album. Their second effort is essential listening for fans of the genre. It’s clear that this band effortlessly creates music that has influenced countless others. Their ability to consistently deliver stunning and powerful performances is truly awe-inspiring.