Review by Lydia Evans for MPM
Anette Olzon will be releasing her highly anticipated third solo album, “Rapture”, on 10th May via Frontiers Music.
The former vocalist of Nightwish and one half of The Dark Element duo is excited for this release. Anette speaks of the lead single, “Rapture is [also] the album’s name, and this song is probably the catchiest song on it!” (Frontiers Music).
According to Frontiers Music, Rapture “promises to deliver an electrifying blend of heavy melodies and soaring vocals that solidify Anette Olzon’s esteemed status as one of the premier female voices in the metal genre”.
Anette has again teamed up with Swedish guitarist and producer Magnus Karlsson. Magnus covers the guitars, bass, and keyboards on the album.
The pair also works with Anders Köllerfors (drums) and Johan Husgafvel (vocal growls).
The album is described as navigating “through various musical genres, from symphonic to melodic power metal, with hints of melo-death, while maintaining an irresistibly catchy and melodious essence”.
When I listen to the opening track, Heed The Call, I already agree with Rapture’s description. The juxtaposition of Anette’s powerful voice against Jonah’s growling is something unique and makes for interesting music. Heed The Call has an anthemic quality to it; a strong opening track.
Anette spoke of the song’s accompanying video, “’Heed the Call’ is a culmination of passion, energy, and creative expression, and I truly hope you’ll enjoy it as much as I’ve enjoyed bringing it to life.” (Frontiers Music).
Title track Rapture is definitely catchy. The chanting vocals at the beginning against the guitars really captures your attention. It’s a dynamic track with captivating instrumentals.
The album has longer length tracks coming in around five minutes – each song is rich in quality and spreads across different metal genres, making them hard to place in one box. Day of Wrath has another
catchy riff against Anette’s vocal power.
My personal favourite is Requiem; the melodic yet distorted guitar solo really adds to the track. Everything about it is high powered from the drums to the vocals.
Arise really showcases Anette’s voice and range. The lyrics are powerful and make you think – “There’s no time to hide in shame / we will all be judged the same”.
These lyrical themes continue with Take A Stand. With a message of “forever united / we stand hand in hand”, it adds an emotional depth to the music.
Cast Evil Out continues with the melo-death feeling. Greedy World begins with an epic introduction – the sound has a symphonic power to it. This one is another stand-out track to me – the repetitive backing vocals against the melodic guitars really work.
The album is definitely versatile and every track brings a combination of genres and styles together. Hear My Song is more of a ballad, showing off the keyboards and vocals the most.
It’s more of a low-key song, even after the drums and heavier guitars come in. The melodic guitar solo captures the feeling of the song.
Head Up High brings Jonah’s growling back, adding another layer. The instrumentals are strong against the mix of voices. The sections with Anette speaking are especially commanding.
We Search For Peace is the final track. With distorted guitars and soaring vocals, it’s a good end to
the album.
Rapture is definitely a unique album – as it cannot be put into one true genre, fans of different metal subgenres will enjoy it. It’s worth a listen
Pre-order the album: https://orcd.co/aorapture
