Evergrey – A Heartless Portrait (The Orphean Testament)
Release Date: 20th May 2022
Label: Napalm Records
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Genre: Progressive Melodic Metal
FFO: Symphony X, Brainstorm, Dream Theater, Nevermore, Pyramaze.
Review By: Rick Farley
My first exposure to Evergrey was the now classic and phenomenal album Recreation Day in 2003. At the time I couldn’t believe my ears, I just couldn’t fathom that this incredible but unknown to me band had already released three other albums prior to Recreation Day, and I had not a clue. Well, needless to say, I have been a fan ever since and firmly put Evergrey at the very top of the heap in their respective genre. This Gothenburg, Sweden metal export can sometimes be described as Progressive Metal, but to be honest that’s just a part of the mix. The band focuses on songs and melody, using heavy riffs and orchestral synth elements combined with searing soulful vocals that all accentuate the melancholy of their often-dark soundscapes. Huge sing along choruses, and scorching solos deepen the heartfelt emotions felt by this celebrated band. Over twenty-five years of metal mastery, twelve impressive studio albums, countless tours across the world, the band is about to release A Heartless Portrait (The Orphean Testament) on powerhouse label, Napalm Records.
First single and anthemic album opener Save Us just might be their most infectious song to date. Heavy metallic crunchy riffs and groove laden drums, lead to an almost call to arms style chorus which includes hundreds of fans voices that was recorded just for this unforgettable track. The chunky riffed Midwinter Calls also uses fan participation of atmospheric audience recordings from their most recent tour through Sweden intertwined with heavy guitars and ethereal synths that drives the high-powered song to what’s guaranteed to be a fan favourite in live settings. The Orphean Testament brings out the heaviness with a brisk meaty down tuned guitar riff, crisp double bass and a hefty hooky chorus. The emotive Wildfires is a barebones style ballad that’s sombre yet beautiful. Evergrey still sound inspired, each song engaging in instrumental force and mesmerizing vocals.
The masterpiece of the album though, for me, is aptly title Ominous. Tom S. Englund, aside from being an amazing guitar player, just might be the very best Heavy Metal singer alive today. His incredibly soulful and soothing voice ease us into a very rich toned bass driven groove by Johan Niemann that will surely affect your emotions. The low end brings hefty weight to the openness of the track. Resonating dramatic synths from Rikard Zander and shred style guitar licks lead to the almost off time verse. The dynamic drum fills, and rhythm set by Jonas Ekdahl makes the track feel very progressive and technical but still fluid and clean. The guitar work on this track while not overly riffy is incredible, it’s jagged with open airiness and beautifully crafted solos between Englund and Henrik Danhage. Jaw dropping and dripping with feeling. This entire song is a testament to the never-ending creativity that exudes from this legendary band.
A Heartless Portrait (The Orphean Testament) is close to being a dark and exquisite masterpiece of heavy syncopated riffs, anthemic choruses, synth laden melodic atmospheres and shredding tasteful guitar solos. Scorching metallic hooks, head banging grooves and some of the most distinctive remarkable vocals you’ve ever heard all sound flawless with a warm meticulous production. Everything is crystal clear; it sounds weighty and alive. Each song is meticulously crafted with style, grace and sheer passion. Their sound contains a certain authenticity or sincerity about it that makes the listener care about what’s being played and becomes emotionally invested. Music that you feel fervently. 
(4.5 / 5)
