Released by: Independent
Release Date: Out Now!!!
Genre: Power Metal
Links: https://www.facebook.com/p/Dagorlath-100050260729207/
Line Up:
Dani Hernandez – Vocals
Jose Antonio Hernandez – Drums
Laura Illan – Keyboards
Raul Ramos – Bass
Tracklist:
1. Karma
2. Apocalipsis
3. Lamento eterno
4. Nuevo mundo
5. Grito de libertad
6. Un día más
7. Volveremos a soñar
8. Siempre
9. Juramento
10. Renacer
11. Tan lejos
Spanish and power metal – not words typically found together. Back in 2010, this surprising combination emerged when the Spanish band released their debut Génesis, followed by Immortal (2012) and Última Alianza (2015). Now, after a nine-year gap, Apocalipsis has arrived, begging the question: “Was the wait worthwhile?”
The album’s visual presentation immediately impresses. Surpassing their previous artistic efforts, the cover artwork stands as a masterpiece. It depicts a mysterious hooded figure positioned between two massive dragon-like creatures, with a modern cityscape as the backdrop. Much like classic Iron Maiden artwork, it invites deeper exploration and interpretation before you’ve even experienced the music.
The sonic landscape is dominated by José Antonio Hernández’s drumming at breakneck speeds, earning him potential comparisons to Usain Bolt. Alongside him, guitarist Javier Pérez and bassist Raúl Ramos match his intensity, likely risking repetitive strain injury in their dedicated performance. Laura Illán’s keywork provides essential balance, preventing the band from careening over the edge like Thelma & Louise.
Vocalist Dani Hernández completes the ensemble, delivering lyrics in Spanish (currently being translated by my daughter thanks to her A-level studies, as I’m admittedly clueless about the meaning). His vocals show strength in the middle range, though occasional high notes reveal some instability that can be slightly jarring. Overall, it’s a robust album that promises to grow more engaging once the narrative behind the striking artwork becomes clear.
Written by: Adrian Hextall
Ratings: 7/10