CoC : Sonata Arctica - Silence : Review

Sonata Arctica - _Silence_
(Century Media, 2001)
by: Adrian Bromley (8 out of 10)

There are a lot of bands out there in the metal world that claim they know how to play melodic metal. Y'know the type of band, right? The type of band that wails away on the guitar, have vocals that sound like their singer's pants are too tight, while acting all pompous and full of themselves as the music cruises along. Yeah, I hate those bands too. Hmm... Children of Bodom, anyone? Finland's Sonata Arctica are a great example of a melodic metal band that plays their music with enough conviction and passion that you get swept up in it all. Some might classify them as one of those bands I described, but look deeper into the work of Sonata Arctica, and pretty soon you'll change your mind about them. _Silence_ is a great record. The vocals are incredible, the music masterful and the production is top notch. The band couldn't have asked for a better follow-up to 1999's stellar _Ecliptica_. Melodic metal it may be, but Sonata Arctica gather up a lot of steam on this record, showcasing that not only can they write good songs but they can speed it up too. Interesting tracks include "False News Travels Fast", "Land of the Free" and "Black Sheep". Ten times better than Children of Bodom and easily surpassing the last two discs from HammerFall (who?), Sonata Arctica are the real deal for fans who want good, wholesome melodic metal done right. Stunning.

(article published 19/10/2001)

ALBUMS
5/2/2015	J Semprich	4.5	Sonata Arctica - Pariah's Child
1/15/2000	A Bromley	7	Sonata Arctica - Ecliptica