Album Review: Soen – Atlantis

They may remain a bit of a hidden treasure, but that’s surely unlikely to remain that way for much longer for Soen. Formed several years before the formal announcement in 2010, the Swedes, led by drummer Martin Lopez, produce music described by him as “melodic, heavy and intricate”. It’s a fair description of the band whose fifth album Imperial was one of my top ten in 2021, and an album that remains a regular on the playlist.

This release, which is accompanied by a concert film, is a celebration of the band’s decade together. Recorded on December 10th, 2021, Soen headed for the Atlantis Grammofon Studio in Stockholm. The venue has legendary status, having seen a plethora of internationally renowned artists record there. From Quincy Jones to Lenny Kravitz to Green Day.

Alongside Lopez (drums & percussion), Joel Ekelöf (lead vocals), Lars Enok Åhlund (guitars & piano), Cody Lee Ford (lead guitar) and Oleksii “Zlatoyar” Kobel (bass), Soen are joined by an eight-piece orchestra and bring their classic songs to life again with a magical reinterpretation which elicits fresh energy and new elements. 13 of the band’s songs are reinterpreted in dramatic fashion and it’s an absorbing listen.

As well as the band’s own tracks, there’s a new piece called “Trials” which debuts here. Centred on the need to not take freedom for granted, that society is a distraction for the population which allows a failure of recognition of the important things in life. Lopez and Ekelöf comment: “The great masses are taken advantage of by a few wolves of wealth, many of whom we put in power ourselves or pay monthly subscription fees to.  “Trials” talks about the desperation and anger of knowing that society is unfair and that we all contribute to something we’re against just by existing.”

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You can pick any track here and simply gasp at the creativity that surges through it. From the opening song “Antagonist” with it memorable melodic hooks, the dreamy “Illusion” which simply soars with majestic beauty, to the incredibly dark interpretation of Slipknot’s “Snuff”, it’s a release that is perfect for winter evenings, roaring fires, and a glass of something wet. It’s mesmeric qualities, full of progressive goodness extend their tentacles and wrap gently around you. In a spellbinding 80 minutes, it’s an opportunity to be transported away, bewitched by the majestic musicianship on display.

Whilst it’s become fashionable to perform with orchestral accompaniment, there’s something about the way that Soen’s music is crafted that makes the connection with the strings and backing vocals a perfect fit. Just listening to “Monarch” or the glorious Eastern tones of “Jinn” supplies goosebumps to the skin, such is the fluidity and cohesion that is presented.

It’s an essential release for any self-respecting progressive metal fan. If you aren’t familiar with the band, then Atlantis provides a fantastic entry level opportunity, and one you’ll be unlikely to forget or regret.

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Atlantis is out on November 18th

Check out all the bands we review in 2022 on our Spotify and YouTube playlists!

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