Lacuna Coil, the Italian gothic metal band that has carved a unique niche in the world of metal have once again captured the hearts and minds of their fans with their 10th studio album Sleepless Empire which will be released on 14th February via Century Media Records. Sleepless Empire tackles themes such as the perils of modern technology and the impact it has on the world in a time period of endless connection. Co-vocalist Andrea Ferro expands on this by saying:
“We’re from a unique generation that remembers the analog world but lives in the digital one, we’re the first generation that’s lived through both so we’ve been witnesses the change to our society and that’s the Sleepless Empire. Everyone is always on their phone, always scrolling, always doing something – morning to night, it just never stops.”
Lacuna Coil have undergone numerous transformations in their musical style and influences since their origins in 1994. Their early works are characterised by dense, gothic atmosphere which has laid the foundations of their later successes. Over the years, Lacuna Coil has seamlessly incorporated elements of alternative metal and symphonic metal into their music, creating a signature sound that is both eclectic and cohesive, culminating in a dark, cinematic masterpiece in the form of Sleepless Empire.
The record opens with “The Siege,” a haunting and atmospheric track that immediately draws the listener into the world of Sleepless Empire. Ethereal vocalisation from Cristina Scabbia lulls you in before the riffs, drums and Andrea Ferro’s growls explode with a forceful impact. The vocal dynamics throughout the record are a key element to the record’s success. The interplay between Scabbia and Ferro is masterful, with both vocalists delivering powerful and emotive performances. The harmonies and vocal arrangements are well crafted which add layers of depth and atmosphere to the tracks. “Oxygen” is one of the lead tracks from the record which showcases the dark and ominous path the band have walked for many years now. Crushing, addictive and captivating with catchy hooks and anthemic choruses. “Scarecrow” is hypnotic in nature as it twists and turns with spellbinding synths and keys weaving their way amongst the heavy guitars, swelling melodies and haunting vocalisations. There is a dense underpinning of groove on this track which is both enticing and unnerving. “Gravity” opens with ominous orchestration and monastic chanting before unleashing the deafening and bewitching gothic metal. Plenty of synths and orchestration are utilised on this track, an offering with a slower, gliding pace.
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“I Wish You Were Dead” is a muscular, anthemic and melodically rich mid-tempo stomp which is straight to the point as the record’s shortest track. “Hosting The Shadow” features none other than Randy Blythe of Lamb of God, the first track to be released from the record. Blythe’s distinctive vocal delivery brings a whole new level of fury to this track and combined with Scabbia’s powerful presence and the intense instrumentation, “Hosting The Shadow” becomes shrouded in darkness and style. “In Nomine Patris” (In The Name Of The Father) is probably the record’s darkest track. This is taken from the Latin Trinitarian Formula which refers to the three persons of the Christian Trinity (“in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit). Coupled with the lyrical content and the heavy symphonic presence, this track is a spiritual experience, heightened by the flying guitar solo. The title track pays homage to Lacuna Coil’s legacy, containing the heart and soul of their new-found vigour whilst maintaining their classic sound.
As the record descends into its closing chapters, the band don’t show any sign of slowing down. “Sleep Paralysis” is brooding and dense with symphonic elements, creating a nightmarish soundscape of foreboding and anticipation. The penultimate “In The Mean Time” features guest vocals from Ash Costello of New Years Day. The vocal interplay here is incredibly dynamic and ground-breaking with passion and raw energy bouncing off each other to create an explosive and thunderous track. The record’s conclusion “Never Dawn” serves as a warning, literally telling you to “run.” The eerie vocalisations and ominous orchestration act as a foundation for the crushing guitars, thunderous drums and soaring melodies. The dual vocal interplay is powerful and emotionally charged with a sense of determination.
One of the most striking aspects of Sleepless Empire is the meticulous attention to detail in the instrumentation and production. Each track is perfectly crafted to flow perfectly within the record yet are more than strong enough to stand alone at the same time. Sleepless Empire is a stunning and powerful album, a testament to their growth, evolution and the unwavering dedication to their craft. With a blend of haunting melodies, powerful vocals and intricate and atmospheric instrumentation, Sleepless Empire stands as a beacon of creativity and innovation in the gothic metal genre which demands to be heard, experienced and cherished.
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Sleepless Empire is out on February 14th via Century Media Records.
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