Review EQUILIBRIUM “Equinox”

The beginning of a new century also marked the start of a band that has released six albums to date. We’re talking about Equilibrium. The Bavarian metal band is launching their newest studio effort, “Equinox,” which features 13 new tracks. Six years have passed since the release of “Renegades, ” and although the band and their sound continues to evolve, a few things are different.

“Equinox” is the seventh album from the Bavarian metal band, and it features a new singer. Fabian Getto took over vocal duties in 2023. His raw vocals and the ability to combine them with a melodic approach fit the band’s development well. The days of hoarse screams are gone. Those gradually evolved into roaring shouts, which strengthened the rough edges of “Equinox.” Songs like “I’ll Be Thunder” and the thunderous “Legends” represent blasting metal that blends melody and atmosphere. “Legends,” with its melodic, dense chorus contrasting with atmospheric, folk-driven moments, is a prime example of Equilibrium’s 2025 sound. The new album features melodic death metal, which shines during dramatic songs like “Gnosis” but also during the heavy, pounding “Nexus,” which shows the fusion of aggressiveness and harmony. The latter also reminds in parts of the Gothenburg sound of bands like In Flames.

Despite all the heaviness, the album never falls short of melodies, an important stylistic element that resonates throughout “Earth Control,” the album’s opener. The song is generally a raging metal track, with electronic moments adding a cinematic vibe to the album’s hard-hitting beginning. It’s a good choice to put this song at the top of the tracklist, as it sharpens listeners’ expectations for the next 45 minutes.

“Anderswelt” is the only German title on the album, serving as a link to the band’s past when they only wrote songs in their native language. Today, the only connection between past and present is the title being in the band’s mother tongue.

Different from all the other songs on “Equinox” is “Borrowed Waters.” While stylistically fitting into the context of the album, the song is calmer and more atmospheric than most of the others. It is an emotional moment featuring Roniit’s vocals. Her clean, celestial vocals are a great addition to the song and the album’s flow. The song creates a connection to the peaceful side of nature, which is also reflected in the short interlude, “Rituals of Sun and Moon,” that leads to the mentioned “Nexus” with its massive riffs.

“Equinox” is a colorful blend of genres and influences. Broadly speaking, their music in 2025 can be described as melodic death metal, though the folk elements of the past remain present in a subtle way. Electronic additions give the album a modern touch, creating a dense sound with sweet melodies that contrast with the roughness of the musical foundation. Fans of good melodies and solid headbanging will find what they’re looking for on “Equinox.”