Destinity | Ascension | Crimson Productions

 

Destinity was formed in 1996 in Lyon, France, and has since built a legacy of steadily evolving melodic death metal with roots deeply embedded in the Scandinavian style. After shifting from symphonic black/death in their early years to a more riff-driven, melodic death metal direction by the mid-2000s, the band became known for combining aggression with melodic finesse. Albums like “The Inside” (2008) and “Resolve In Crimson” (2012) helped establish their presence internationally, but it was “In Continuum” (2021) that pushed them into new visibility, both critically and publicly. That release saw Destinity touring extensively and crossing a significant milestone with over two million Spotify streams. With over two decades of experience, they remain a reliable presence in European metal, continually honing their sound without abandoning its foundations.

"Ascension" continues where “In Continuum” left off, presenting a sharply constructed set of songs that carry the same melodic death metal core shaped by 2000s Gothenburg, while also infusing it with the polish of modern production and more mature arrangements. The album finds Destinity working with Ricardo Borges and mastering legend Jens Bogren at Fascination Street Studios, lending the album a powerful and professional sound that maintains weight and clarity without overpowering its melodic elements.

Across eleven tracks, Destinity avoids unnecessary filler. There’s consistency in pacing, intensity, and a noticeable focus on songwriting economy. Each track maintains a strong identity while contributing to the album’s momentum. Songs like "Light Up Your Sky" and "Children Of The Sun" (guest vocals by Steva Deathless) benefit from dynamic interplay between aggression and melody. Vocals shift fluidly between deep growls and clean harmonics that enhance contrast rather than soften it.

The guitar work stands at the center of the album’s strength—tight, purposeful riffing sits next to fluid leads that recall classic In Flames' “Colony”-era and Dark Tranquillity's “Character”-era. There’s a noticeable precision in structure, with choruses designed to remain accessible but not forced or overly polished. The drumming is precise, supporting without excess, while the bass maintains a subtle presence that grounds rather than embellishes.

What stands out is how Destinity manages to sound refreshed without overstepping the essence of their sound. "Silver Shades" and "Final Fiction" hint at a broader emotional range, while "The Wolf Within" and "Dying Light" hold on to the band’s traditional ferocity. The closing track, "In Thorns", is a strong, grounded conclusion—not a dramatic finale, but one that brings closure to the overall movement.

"Ascension" is not a reinvention. It’s a reaffirmation. A band confident in their sound, with just enough modern instinct to move forward without shedding their skin. The clarity and restraint across the album speak to experience rather than experimentation.

Score: 8/10