Moonbathers marks Delain‘s ten year anniversary and serves as a worthy monument to their decade of musical success. This is the fifth studio album for the Dutch Symphonic group and this latest offering showcases how much the band has progressed since the release of Lucidity in 2006.
To refer to Delain as a ‘metal’ band would be a misnomer- a more accurate description would be symphonic pop with dark undertones. The heavy elements are there to compliment the songs, but are not the primary focus of the tracks. Some of their earlier releases have lacked a certain grittiness, but Moonbathers manages to capture a good balance between pop and symphonic metal. The orchestral elements serve as one of Moonbathers‘ strongest features, whilst the guitars, drums and bass are consistently interesting, with refreshingly heavy sections peppered across the album. Wessel‘s vocals are sounding fantastic throughout; delicately tuneful, but with a strength that gives them the right level of impact. This albums permits her a degree of vocal variety; Danse Macabre showcases her range, whilst Chrysalis (The Last Breath) allows for more poignant soft vocals.
The Glory and the Scum is probably the best song on the album, where the catchy vocals, heavy riffs and gothic symphonic elements amalgamate effortlessly. The chorus sticks in your head after the first listen and the progressively heavier sections keep the track eclectic and interesting throughout. Opening track Hands of Gold serves as another highlight, with an epic intro and plenty of snarling guitar riffs. Just as the song seems to wane, we are treated to the roaring guest vocals of Arch Enemy’s Alissa White-Gluz.
One of the most interesting additions is the inclusion of Queen cover, Scandal. This track is more of an acquired taste and whilst some parts work well, other sections are grating. However, this is still an interesting take on a lesser-known track.
Overall, Moonbathers is quite repetitive, as most of the songs follow the same formula, but the more lacklustre tracks (Hurricane, Fire With Fire) still work well as part of an album. This is another fine addition to the Delain catalogue. Whilst it isn’t particularly different or groundbreaking, it is a solid listen with some standout tracks. What it lacks in variety, it is a sure hit for existing fans and a great introduction to new listeners. Definitely recommended for fans of Amaranthe and Within Temptation.
Released 26th August 2016
This is another fine addition to the Delain catalogue. Whilst it isn't particularly different or groundbreaking, it is a solid listen with some standout tracks.
