Review WITHERFALL “Sounds of the Forgotten”

Witherfall‘s roots go back to 2013. That’s the year the band was formed and three albums are the proof of their work to date. With “Sounds of the Forgotten”, album number four is waiting in the starting blocks and it is the expected next great longplayer from the progressive power metal band.

Witherfall pick it up right where they left off with “Curse of Autumn”. The five-piece from California combine atmospheric moments (“Where Do I Begin”) with thundering metal tracks like “Insidious”. The latter is a furious metal tune in which Joseph Michael shifts between harsh vocals and high-pitched screams. Also worth mentioning is the sinister middle section, which features some narrative moments and is a great deviation from the usual pattern. “Insidious” is the song that shows the most of Witherfall’s musical trademarks, as it contains some Pink Floyd echoes as well as coming close to death metal brutality.

A factor that adds to the cinematic vibe of the album are the two interludes. “A Lonely Path” and “Aftermath” are well placed and ensure the great flow of “Sounds of the Forgotten”. Having said that, Witherfall’s fourth studio album isn’t a concept album. Lyrically the songs are not connected.

The album’s tracklist maintains its excitement throughout, with the second half of “Sounds of the Forgotten” just as strong as the first tracks. This includes the dark and sombre “When it All Falls Away”, which shows that metal bands can write semi-acoustic songs that fit into the context of a heavily roaring release. It’s the beauty of emotion and intensity that makes a song like “When It All Falls Apart” a highlight, and the fact that the tune bursts at the end just completes the positive impression.

“Opulent” picks up the acoustic pattern and feels more like a bridge to the grande finale. “What Have You Done” is the final chapter of the latest Witherfall album and it is a massive finish. Clocking in at 10 minutes, it is an epic way to end an album that is heavy, fragile and full of emotive intensity. “What Have You Done” reflects the entire approach of the album, distilled into one song. This epos is a great way to end an album, a summary of everything you have heard so far.

Fans of bands like Sanctuary and the earlier Queensrÿche will appreciate Witherfall’s effort. Blistering metal songs are what ‘Sounds of the Forgotten’ brings to the plate, and with plenty of detail embedded, this longplayer guarantees long-lasting enjoyment, with headbanging included.