Visions of Atlantis – Pirates II, Armada

Is it possible to combine the beautiful nature of the Alps in Austria with the world of buccaneering on the high seas? In the case of the symphonic metal band Visions of Atlantis, I say a resounding yes. The band around front woman and pirate Clémentine Delauney is known for creative storytelling and a lot of imagination. They manage to dress centuries-old mythologies in a fresh guise. Founded in 2000, the band will be celebrating 25 years of band history next year. During this time, they have released eight studio albums, all of which follow their own cosmos. Thematically, we will be exploring the myth of Atlantis, among other things, but the focus will be on nautical themes and piracy.

There have been a few changes in the Visions of Atlantis line-up, with the exception of drummer Thomas Caser, who has been with the band since the first album in 2002 with his powerful drums. This inconsistency was also noticeable in the sound, but there have been no further changes to the line-up since the 2019 album "Wanderer". This is also reflected in the band's playing, the sound is more mature. Their latest work "Pirates II - Armada" is the sequel to the album "Pirates" from 2022, which focused on pirate life for the first time. The fans of Visions of Atlantis have responded very positively to this concept - what will they think of the sequel? Let us be surprised.

"Pirates II - Armada" contains 12 songs and begins with the soulful opener 'To Those Who Choose To Fight'. The melancholic intro is accompanied by great vocals and a memorable soundscape. A great start to the album and a memorable transition into the dramatic 'The Land Of The Free'. From the very first moments, you are reminded of years gone by when pioneering bands such as Nightwish and Within Temptation were first heard with their epic melodies. It is symphonic metal in its purest form: fast and powerful guitar leads, epic drumming and the melodic vocals of Clémentine Delauney and Michele Guaitoli. The genre has changed again and again over the years, but Visions of Atlantis keep the traditions alive and add their own style. Particularly noteworthy is the orchestral background music, which adds a lot of atmosphere. In 'Tonight I'm Alive' we enter uncharted waters: oriental sounds and a choir open the song. Clémentine and Michele sing together and against each other, almost like the stormy sea fighting for the upper hand with the restless wind. The song is fun and drives forward; live it will certainly encourage people to sing along, especially with the creative solo by guitarist Christian Douscha before the bridge. The bridge itself shines with wonderful vocals and mystical oriental sound elements.

A double bass fountain opens the eponymous title track 'Armada' and takes the listener into the fascinating world of pirates, which is impressively visualized by an elaborately staged music video. The band is darker and heavier than ever before. In an interesting way, hard heavy metal is mixed with symphonic parts in an easily accessible sound. The polyphonic choir vocals in the chorus are particularly captivating. Of course, the obligatory ballad should not be missing on an album like this. On "Armada" this is 'Ashes to the Sea'. This ballad is accompanied by theatrical orchestral passages that give the song more depth and atmosphere with various tempo and mood changes. It may not stand out as much as other tracks on the album, but it deserves its place on "Armada". 'Hellfire' starts with a bang - and that is meant literally. Cannon shots can be heard, together with heavy organ sounds they set an intense mood. The tension rises with the intense and rhythmic drumming of Thomas Caser, before the whole thing really becomes "hellfire" with a killer riff and high screaming. The chorus is the best part of the song, with a "sing-along" guarantee that is sure to get people moving at a concert. The "Burn, burn, burn" chant is simple but effective - I can well imagine the fans throwing their hands up in the air and screaming at the band. The curtain falls with the closer 'Where the Sky and Ocean Blend'. The epic piece stretches over seven minutes, making it the longest track on the album. Visions of Atlantis obviously believe in going out with a loud bang. This massive symphonic piece is a fitting end to this work. At the beginning of the song, a mysterious melody plays in the background - is it raindrops falling on the ship on a calm night, or the harsh creaking of the steering wheel? It's hard to make out, but all the more fascinating. But before the sound can reveal itself, Thomas starts his drum fireworks and whips the melody forward. This is also where I hear Herbert Glos' booming bassline most clearly. Clémentine's vocal performance captivates from minute one; she is good at the beginning of the album, but terrific at the end. Even if you're not a big fan of the symphonic metal genre, you have to acknowledge the vocal performances this woman can deliver. Michele's vocal part provides a contrast: powerful and strong, the backing vocals in particular make it almost seem as if a ghostly pirate crew is echoing his words. 'Where the Sky and Ocean Blend' is a clear recommendation for listening.

With "Pirates II - Armada", Visions of Atlantis have created a worthy successor to "Pirates". They may not have reinvented the genre, but they have managed to continue the same drama, passion and emotion of "Pirates". It is therefore a successful continuation of the saga. "Armada" will be available in digital and physical form from July 5. A clear recommendation for fans of Nightwish and Within Temptation.