Review LEPROUS “Melodies of Atonement”

It was in Notodden, Norway in 2001 when a band started that slowly grew into the premier league of progressive rock from the north. Leprous is the name of the group that has slowly but surely become one of the major players in the progressive music scene, with “Melodies of Atonement” being the latest strike from the Norwegian quintet.

The new album follows “Aphelion”, which was released in 2021, and Leprous show once again why they belong to the heavyweights of progressive rock and metal. The Norwegians manage to combine a multi-layered musical approach with a melodic aspect that makes it easy for non-musicians to dive into this world of sounds.

Leprous find the sweet spot when it comes to combining both aspects, and the iconic voice of Einar Solberg is a trademark element of the band’s musical expression.

Lyrically, “Melodies of Atonement” is a very personal album, with Solberg expressing feelings and emotions he had, which are almost unfiltered hit the fans through the lyrics. His enormous voice allows the frontman to express these feelings in a great way, no matter if there are almost desperate screams like on “My Spectar” or nearly fragile moments like on “Faceless”. Leprous are masters in playing with the silent/loud factor, creating enormous soundscapes that are made to blossom over time. In the end, each song is a mesmerizing milestone in Leprous’ career, an album that shows the band at their next peak.

Compared to the rather heavy beginning with the dark “Silent Walking Alone” in the first row, the second half of the album pays more attention to the darker and calmer songs, with “Starlight” being a touching moment with a Pink Floyd-like flair. Also worth mentioning is the next track called “Self-Satisfied Lullaby”. It’s one of the most intense moments on the album, and although heaviness isn’t the key here, it’s the emotional impact that catches you as a listener.

With “Melodies of Atonement”, Leprous will not disappoint their fan base. In a way, this band follows their trademark sound while adding some twists that open up their music to other ideas and influences. “Melodies of Atonement” is a longplayer that requires focus and every time you listen to it, another piece of joy is revealed, making the whole album a highlight in Leprous’ discography.