Secret Sphere – Blackened Heartbeat

Italian power metal veterans Secret Sphere return with their tenth studio album, “Blackened Heartbeat.” This offering marks a stylistic departure from their usual brand of exuberant power metal, venturing into darker territory with a focus on progressive elements and symphonic grandeur. Let’s embark on this introspective journey, track by track, and see if “Blackened Heartbeat” proves to be a bold evolution for Secret Sphere or a misstep into uncharted territory.

A Symphonic Exploration of Darkness:

• The Crossing Toll (1:32): The album opens with a melancholic soundscape. Acoustic guitars and ethereal vocals set the stage for the emotional depth to be explored.
• Blackened Heartbeat (5:12): The music explodes with a surprising intensity. Heavier riffs and prominent use of pig squeals create a sense of unease. Roberto Messina’s vocals take on a more aggressive quality, perfectly capturing the song’s dark mood. The lyrics, though cryptic, hint at a descent into despair and a struggle with inner demons. This track is a clear departure from Secret Sphere’s usual power metal sound.
• Confession (4:58): A return to a more melodic approach. The tempo slows down, allowing space for a soaring lead guitar melody and prominent orchestration. Messina’s vocals regain their melodic power, conveying a sense of vulnerability and introspection. The lyrics explore themes of regret and the burden of past actions.
• One Day I Will (4:37): A glimmer of hope emerges here. The song features a driving rhythm section and a powerful chorus that carries a message of perseverance. Messina delivers a passionate vocal performance, urging the listener to keep fighting despite the darkness. The lyrics offer a temporary reprieve from the album’s bleak outlook.
• Bloody Wednesday (4:21): The album’s heaviest track arrives here. Fast tempos, blast beats, and a chaotic guitar solo create a sense of furious desperation. Messina’s vocals are at their most aggressive, perfectly capturing the song’s frenetic energy. The lyrics remain shrouded in mystery, but evoke a sense of violence and rebellion.
• Anna (4:18): This track returns to a more introspective approach. A beautiful piano melody lays the foundation for a heartfelt ballad. Messina delivers a poignant and emotional vocal performance, showcasing his versatility as a singer. The lyrics explore themes of loss and grief, offering a stark contrast to the album’s heavier moments.
• Psycho Kid (4:02): The album explodes back to life with a dose of unbridled power metal energy. Fast tempos, soaring guitars, and a double dose of guitar solos create a sense of manic energy. Messina’s vocals are a force of nature, leading the listener on a thrilling ride. The lyrics remain cryptic but maintain the album’s overall theme of inner turmoil.
• Aura (5:13): A return to a more progressive approach. This track features tempo changes, intricate instrumental passages, and a prominent orchestral arrangement. Messina showcases his vocal range, effortlessly shifting from powerful declarations to soaring high notes. The lyrics remain open to interpretation, adding to the album’s enigmatic quality.
• The Night He Screamed (4:27): The album closes with a powerful and emotional ballad. A haunting melody and soaring vocals create a sense of melancholic closure. The lyrics offer a sense of acceptance and a glimmer of hope for redemption, leaving the listener with a bittersweet feeling.

Verdict: 3.5 out of 5

“Blackened Heartbeat” is a bold experiment for Secret Sphere. The album ventures into darker territory, incorporating progressive elements and symphonic grandeur alongside their signature power metal sound. The songwriting is ambitious, with each track contributing to the overall exploration of emotional turmoil. Messina’s vocals are a highlight, showcasing his ability to adapt to the album’s various moods. The production is clear and powerful, allowing each instrument to shine through the mix.

A minor point to consider: Longtime fans of Secret Sphere’s exuberant power metal sound might find “Blackened Heartbeat” a bit too dark and slow-burning. The reliance on cryptic lyrics might leave some listeners wanting more clarity on the narrative. The occasional use of harsh vocals might feel jarring for some.

However, for fans of progressive metal and those seeking a more introspective side of Secret Sphere, “Blackened Heartbeat” offers a rewarding listening experience. The album proves the band’s willingness to experiment and explore new sonic territories. This offering might not be an instant classic