Label: Steamhammer / SPV

Release Date: February 17, 2017

Rating: 8/10

Reviewed by: Todd “Toddstar” Jolicoeur

I really dig a lot of symphonic metal, but I typically have to be a little choosy.  Sometimes a lot of it runs together or just doesn't fit correctly into the genre.  The latest from Edenbridge fits perfectly and this disc has been in heavy rotation waiting for time to review it.  Disc opener "Shiantara" sets the pace for the disc musically, while also setting the bar for the other tracks on the collection.  The tempo is tight, the guitars and keyboards from Lanvall and Dominik Sebastian work seamlessly together, and the vocals are perfectly matched for the songs vibe.  "The Die Is Not Cast" slows things a bit in the opening, but the heavy groove of the disc is felt once the band kicks in before the verse starts.  The chugging riffs and bottom end give the song punch and attitude that carries into other songs on the disc.  "Until The End Of Time" is a beautiful song that draws out the best of the best from the band - with guitars that deliver a gentler side of the band, tying to the lyrics and perfect duet between vocalist Sabine Edelsbacher and guest Erik Martensson.  This ballad is one of the brighter shining moments of the tracks.  "Return To Grace" has a different feel than other tracks here, even when Johannes Jungreithmeier's drums seem to grab the reins and take control of the songs ebb and flow.  " The Greatest Gift Of All" is a full sounding and feeling track that clocks in at just over 12 minutes and doesn't seem to drag or remain stagnant, thanks to some great guitar work, rich vocals, and a solid foundation from the drums and bass.

"The Moment Is Now" really draws on a symphonic vibe, with chugging riffs, layered vocals, and a rhythm section that anchors the track during the breakdowns and bridges allowing the vocals to lead the charge during the verse and chorus.  "The Visitor" has a killer cadence that gets the foot tapping, head banging, and rock blood flowing.  The vocals are woven beautifully between the guitars, bass, and drums.  The accents from the keyboards add depth to the track.  The songs strength is its full wall of sound vocals on the chorus.  "Only A Whiff Of Life" is another track that slows the pace and lets us take in the beautiful vocals from Edelsbacher and a charming piano counterpart that is the perfect musical landscape for the lyrics.  While a sonic deviation from the other songs here, it fits the mood of the disc.  "A Turnaround In Art" shifts gears and brings us a solid rocker that seems to hit hard without hitting too fast.  The symphonic build from the keyboards underneath the guitars and rhythm section gives the song spark and keeps it moving.

Band: Sabine Edelsbacher (Lead Vocals) - Lanvall (Lead & Rhythm Guitars, Bass, 6 & 12 String Acoustic Guitars, Nylon Guitar, Piano & Keyboards, Hammered Dulcimer, Bouzouki) - Dominik Sebastian (Lead & Rhythm Guitars, Nylon Guitar) - Johannes Jungreithmeier (Drums)

Tracklisting: Shiantara - The Die Is Not Cast - The Moment Is Now - Until The End Of Time - The Visitor - Return To Grace - Only A Whiff Of Life - A Turnaround In Art - The Greatest Gift Of All

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