Greek melodic death metal outfit Aetherian returns with their sophomore album, “At Storm’s Edge,” released in July 2023. Building on the promise of their 2017 debut, “At Storm’s Edge” is a demonstration of growth, refinement, and a melodic onslaught that will leave fans of the genre breathless.
The album opens with a wordless instrumental intro, setting the scene for the epic journey to come. “Guardian of the Storm” explodes right after, a masterclass in weaving together pummeling riffs, soaring guitar leads, and frontman Nick Kael’s venomous rasps. Aetherian wears their influences proudly – shades of Insomnium and Be’lakor are evident – but they manage to forge their own sonic identity through clever songwriting and a clear focus on melody.
“At Storm’s Edge” is not all blast beats and guttural roars. Tracks like “Starlit Shores” showcase the band’s ability to incorporate atmospheric elements and dynamic shifts, creating moments of melancholic beauty amidst the metallic fury. The clean guitar passages are particularly noteworthy, adding a layer of emotional depth that elevates the music beyond mere aggression.
While some might criticize the album’s adherence to the melodic death metal formula, Aetherian executes it with such skill and passion that it becomes a strength. Each song is meticulously crafted, with memorable hooks, well-placed tempo changes, and impressive guitar work. The drumming by Kostas “Sid” Siathas deserves special mention, his tight and dynamic performance providing the backbone for the entire record.
Production-wise, “At Storm’s Edge” is top-notch. The guitars possess a satisfying crunch, the bass rumbles ominously, and the drums sound crisp and powerful. The mix allows all the instruments to breathe while maintaining a cohesive overall sound.
A minor drawback might be the album’s length. At 42 minutes, it doesn’t overstay its welcome, but a couple of tracks in the latter half don’t quite reach the heights of the opening smashes. However, this doesn’t detract from the overall enjoyment of the listening experience.
“At Storm’s Edge” is a strong contender for album of the year in the melodic death metal realm. Aetherian has crafted a record that is both catchy and brutal, familiar yet fresh. Fans of the genre will revel in its storm of melodies, while newcomers will find themselves swept away by its infectious energy. This is a band to watch, and “At Storm’s Edge” is a sonic storm you won’t want to miss.
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