Aephanemer grew out of the Toulouse underground
in the early 2010s, rising from a simple studio project into one of the most
talked about melodic death metal groups coming out of Europe. Their fusion of
aggressive riffs, symphonic firepower and a very direct vocal assault gave them
a clear identity early on. Over the years they shaped that sound with sharp
precision, pushing their mix of classical influences and high speed metal into
the spotlight. With vocalist and guitarist Marion
Bascoul leading the charge, the group built a reputation for ambitious
songwriting, strong melodic instincts and a taste for philosophical themes.
“Utopie” is their fourth full length release, arriving four years after “A
Dream Of Wilderness”, and it lands with the confidence of a band that knows
exactly where it wants to go.
“Utopie”
comes charging in with a sharp momentum. Aephanemer
wastes no time diving into their trademark blend of fast riffing,
soaring melodies and grand orchestral layers. The album has a bright cinematic
shine, paired with a full on attack that keeps the energy high from the first
moments. Marion’s growls cut straight
through the storm, firm and forceful, guiding the music with a direct presence
that suits the band’s intensity.
Aephanemer brings
in darker colours in “Par Delà Le Mur Des Siècles”, letting the melodies drift
into more ancient tones. “Chimère” fires up with a tight rhythmic engine and a
satisfying melodic payoff. “La Rivière Souterraine” stretches into a long form
rush, carrying a dramatic arc that pulls the listener deeper into Aephanemer’s world. The two part title track
closes the album with a sweeping, melodic charge that ties together the
classical lines, the heaviest riffing and the emotional push behind Aephanemer’s writing. The concept around utopia
comes through with clarity, pointing toward inner struggle, unity and the
search for something more harmonious in a chaotic age.
“Utopie”
lands as Aephanemer’s most explosive and
ornate album so far. Fast, melodic, theatrical and fired up, it captures
everything that made the band stand out in the first place and magnifies it.
The symphonic side is bigger, the pace is faster, the riffs are more elaborate
and the emotional core hits with stronger impact. It is an album made with
ambition and precision, and one that has the clear spirit of a band pushing
itself forward.
Score: 8.5
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