Review LABYRINTH “In the Vanishing Echoes of Goodbye”

Italian metal powerhouse Labyrinth is back with a new album. The Tuscan band formed in 1994 and their first album brought the guys to the attention of a wider audience. A deal with Metal Blade Records showed the potential of the band, which resonated on the sophomore release “Return to Heaven Denied”.

Labyrinth never made it to the top, but instead the band delivered consistent quality, which continues with their latest release, “In the Vanishing Echoes of Goodbye. After a regrouping in 2016 that included some lineup changes, guitarists Olaf Thörsen and Andrea Cantarelli along with frontman Roberto Tiranti are the driving force of the band.

Before pushing the ‘play’-button my expectations weren’t exactly high, but what reached my ears is actually a well-done album with a lot of solid power. The six guys from Italy have put a really good song in pole position. “Welcome Twilight” is an up-tempo track that not only reflects the band’s passion for faster metal pieces. There is also a strong melody woven in and the vocals of Roberto Tiranti are like the icing on the cake. Not shying away from some higher pitched parts, the vocals are an important component to the captivating spirit of this album.

With “Accept the Changes” the band shows their songwriting skills. Clocking in at seven minutes, the song showcases the band’s cinematic approach to music. Rooted in power metal and equipped with some nicely placed twists, the six-piece shows the full range of the music.

Besides these bigger soundscapes, Labyrinth can also go hard and heavy. Not that the other tracks are bloodless songs, but it is “Heading for Nowhere” that brings thrash metal to the table. Especially the mighty start shows the bond to the heavier side of metal, while the basic structure of “Heading for Nowhere” follows the main trademarks of the Labyrinth sound.

What can we conclude? “In the Vanishing Echoes of Goodbye” is a very solid record. Melodic power metal with some progressive elements is what the band’s latest effort brings to the table. It doesn’t take long to get familiar with these ten songs. The melodies and hooks are what captivate you from the first time you listen to the album. And because there are enough details to explore, this longplayer provides some lasting fun and entertainment.