Album Review: Illumishade – Another Side Of You

🎵 Tracklist:
Track 1: Enter the Void
Track 2: ELEGY
Track 3: ENEMY
Track 4: In the Darkness
Track 5: Cloudreader
Track 6: Here We Are
Track 7: CYCLONE
Track 8: Fairytale
Track 9: The Horizon Awaits
Track 10: HYMN

🎸 Album Review:
Swiss symphonic metal band Illumishade has once again captivated listeners with their latest offering, ‘Another Side Of You’. This album, released in 2021, showcases the band’s evolution and maturity in both sound and lyrical content. With a tracklist consisting of 10 intricately crafted songs, Illumishade takes listeners on a journey through a sonic landscape that is both heavy and ethereal, dark and uplifting.

The album opens with “Enter the Void”, a powerful and atmospheric track that sets the tone for the rest of the album. The haunting vocals of the lead singer immediately draw the listener in, backed by symphonic elements and driving guitar riffs. This track serves as a perfect introduction to the overall sound of the album – a blend of symphonic metal and melodic rock that creates a unique and immersive listening experience.

One of the standout tracks on ‘Another Side Of You’ is “ELEGY”, a hauntingly beautiful ballad that showcases the band’s ability to create emotional depth in their music. The melancholic piano melodies combined with the soaring vocals create a sense of longing and introspection that lingers long after the song ends. This track is a true testament to Illumishade’s songwriting prowess and their ability to evoke powerful emotions through their music.

“ENEMY” is another standout track on the album, featuring intense guitar riffs and driving rhythms that give the song a sense of urgency and energy. The aggressive vocals paired with the symphonic elements create a dynamic contrast that keeps the listener engaged from start to finish. This track showcases the band’s versatility and ability to seamlessly blend heavy elements with melodic sensibilities.

In contrast to the heavier tracks on the album, “Cloudreader” offers a moment of respite with its dreamy atmosphere and ethereal vocals. The lush orchestration and atmospheric soundscapes create a sense of serenity and introspection, making this track a standout for its sheer beauty and emotional depth.

Illumishade continues to push boundaries with tracks like “CYCLONE”, which features intricate orchestration and complex arrangements that showcase the band’s technical prowess. The relentless energy of this track, combined with the band’s signature symphonic elements, creates a sense of chaos and intensity that is both exhilarating and captivating.

“Fairytale” is a track that showcases Illumishade’s storytelling abilities, with its whimsical lyrics and enchanting melodies. The song takes listeners on a journey through a mystical world filled with magic and wonder, evoking a sense of childlike wonder and imagination.

As a whole, ‘Another Side Of You’ represents a significant evolution for Illumishade in terms of both sound and lyrical content. The band has managed to strike a perfect balance between heaviness and melody, creating an album that is both impactful and emotionally resonant. The production quality on the album is top-notch, allowing each instrument and vocal line to shine through with clarity and precision.

In comparison to the band’s previous albums, ‘Another Side Of You’ showcases a more mature and refined sound that demonstrates Illumishade’s growth as musicians and storytellers. While their earlier work was characterized by raw energy and aggression, this album sees the band exploring more nuanced emotions and themes, adding depth and complexity to their music.

Overall, ‘Another Side Of You’ is a masterful display of symphonic metal craftsmanship that will undoubtedly solidify Illumishade’s place in the genre. With its powerful vocals, intricate orchestrations, and emotional depth, this album is a testament to the band’s artistry and creativity. Illumishade has truly outdone themselves with ‘Another Side Of You’, creating a musical journey that is both captivating and unforgettable.