Lacuna Coil – Sleepless Empire
Review by: Georgina Strilakos
Review Score: 8
When the echoes of Italian gothic and alternative metal cross your mind, one name rises above the rest: Lacuna Coil. This legendary quintet has carved their name into the annals of music since 1994, unveiling a staggering nine studio albums that span from the hauntingly beautiful 1999’s In a Reverie to the mesmerizing 2019’s “Black Anima”. Through the storms of numerous lineup changes, they have steadfastly held onto their captivating essence, a testament to their unwavering artistry. With the release of “Sleepless Empire”, they once again journey into the depths of sound, seamlessly continuing the legacy established in “Black Anima”. While it unfolds as an unmistakably solid offering, it may not stray far from the path we’ve come to expect from these genre titans. The story, after all, remains compelling, draped in shadows and illuminating the night with their signature flair.
The band evokes a powerful vision with this LP, saying it “captures, through our eyes, the tumult of a generation ensnared in an unrelenting digital labyrinth, where social media devours identity, driving us closer each day to a state of soulless conformity.” They continue to reflect on their journey: “We stand at the crossroads, having witnessed the grandeur of an analog past and the stark realities of the modern age, grappling with evolution and yearning for authenticity. Every note we play resonates like a loud declaration of rebellion, a fervent plea to reclaim our essence in an era that seems to spiral into a void of distorted time and shattered reality.” That’s quite a statement!
The album also features guest appearances from Randy Blythe of Lamb of God on “Hosting The Shadow” and Ash Costello of New Year’s Day on “In The Mean Time,” adding new textures to their sound. The band described these collaborations as opportunities to introduce fresh elements while staying true to their core style.
Ok now here’s a look at each track:
The Siege: Kicking things off with an exhilarating atmosphere, this track quickly escalates into a stunning mix of Cristina Scabbia’s ethereal vocals and Andrea Ferro’s fierce growls! It’s a fantastic way to dive into the album’s vibrant dynamic range.
Oxygen: Get ready to feel the energy soar! This song is packed with infectious hooks and an unstoppable rhythm, truly displaying the band’s amazing knack for blending captivating melodies with harder riffs.
Scarecrow: Stepping into darker realms, this track beautifully weaves atmospheric instrumentation with the band’s beloved dual vocals. It’s an enchanting and immersive experience that pulls you in completely.
Gravity: This composition strikes a perfect balance with its melodic yet heavy vibe, seamlessly merging the band’s gothic roots with modern metal flair. It really showcases their incredible versatility and songwriting talent.
I Wish You Were Dead: This electrifying single set the stage for the album, featuring razor-sharp riffs and fierce vocals that highlight the band’s thrilling journey into a heavier sound. Video is great too!
Hosting The Shadow: Get ready for an unforgettable experience as Lamb of God‘s Randy Blythe joins in for dynamic vocal exchanges against a backdrop of thunderous riffs. This song is an absolute powerhouse!
In NominePatris: Dive into the depths of darkness with this atmospheric track that masterfully crafts mood and tension. It’s a stunning showcase of melody and dynamics that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Sleepless Empire: The title track beautifully marries melodic tones with heavy elements, perfectly reflecting the overarching themes of evolution and growth that define this album.
Sleep Paralysis: This haunting gem draws you in with its mesmerizing instrumentation and commanding vocals, creating an immersive experience that you won’t want to miss.
In The Mean Time: Featuring the electrifying Ash Costello from New Year’s Day, this track is bursting with energy and catchy hooks, adding a vibrant layer to the album that’ll have you singing along.
Never Dawn: As the grand finale of the album, this track delivers a breathtaking conclusion with its soaring riffs and heartfelt vocals, beautifully encapsulating the themes and the incredible journey we’ve experienced throughout the album.
In conclusion one can see that “Sleepless Empire”presents a darker and heavier direction for Lacuna Coil, blending their gothic metal roots with modern influences to create a compelling and dynamic album.It’s evident that the band still shares a strong passion and undeniable chemistry among themselves. While “Sleepless Empire” may feel like a familiar journey, it’s also a captivating experience that deserves recognition from both Lacuna Coil fans and gothic metal enthusiasts alike. Worth a listen…..
Released By: Century Media Records
Release Date: February 14th, 2025
Genre: Gothic Metal
Musicians:
Cristina Scabbia / Vocals
Andrea Ferro / Vocals
Marco Coti Zelati / Bass, guitars, keyboards
Richard Meiz / Drums
Daniele Salomone / Guitars