Leprous – Melodies of Atonement
Reviewed by: Shell Dahlia
Review Score: 8.5
Norwegian outfit Leprous are unleashing their highly anticipated 8th studio album entitled ‘Melodies Of Atonement’ on August 30th on Century Media Records/Inside Out Music.
Having already offered the public a glimpse of what’s in store with their irresistibly catchy single “Atonement,” the band sets the stage for a collection of breathtaking compositions that will resonate with listeners from diverse backgrounds and tastes within the music scene. This single was complemented by a striking video shot in Poland, directed by the talented Dariusz Szermanowicz. The video not only enhances the experience but also highlights a fiercely energetic and engaging aspect of the band, demonstrating their ability to captivate and connect on a deep level. The powerful combination of this song and its accompanying video underscores the band’s evolution and hints at the exciting creative direction they’re heading in, making it clear that they are pushing boundaries and expanding their artistry in thrilling new ways.
The whimsical sounds found in previous albums are put into overdrive, whisking you away in a hurricane of technicality and hypnotizing vocals from Einar Solberg. Tor Oddmund Suhrke on guitar, Baard Kolstad on drums, Simen Børven on bass and Robin Ognedal on guitar and backing vocals work in harmony with Einar creating the highs and lows familiar to Leprous fans. Even though the sound is familiar, it is more palatable, flowing more freely with less jumping back and forth typically found on previous albums, which will draw in a new crowd but still staying true enough to their old sound to please the ears of long time fans.
I am struggling to have an unbiased rating for this album as this band has had me hook line and sinker for the last few months but I truly believe their new album will continue to gain traction for the band as it is intoxicatingly stunning.
As this album on a whole is slightly more melancholic than their previous releases, I rate it 8.5/10
01 Silently Walking Alone 4:05
02 Atonement 4:49
03 My Specter 3:55
04 I Hear The Sirens 4:31
05 Like A Sunken Ship 4:04
06 Limbo 5:56
07 Faceless 6:25
08 Starlight 6:09
09 Self-Satisfied Lullaby 6:21
10 Unfree My Soul 5:21