Serenity - Death & Legacy

When one thinks of the metal scene in Europe, Germany is one of the first places that gets mentioned.  However, in that country’s shadow (figuratively and literally) is Austria, who is gaining some recognition for the bands they turn out.  One of the bands that is helping in the push is the symphonic metal band Serenity.  Already gaining recognition for their first two releases, the band is ready to push even further with a new album in Death & Legacy, which is by far, their most ambitious effort yet.

In Death & Legacy, Serenity takes a bold step in going the concept album route.  Based on historical figures such as Christopher Columbus, Sir Francis Drake, and Queen Elizabeth I, Serenity has a plan in mind and the talent to make such a concept a reality.  Anyone who has listened to Serenity before knows about the inevitable Sonata Arctica comparisons, particularly on the vocals.  However, that’s where those comparisons (as well as those to Kamelot) should end, as Serenity has developed their own style.  Relying on a balanced mix of power metal and symphonic elements, the band has shown some growth, as evidenced on songs such as “New Horizons,” “State of Siege,” and “Beyond Desert Sands.”  In addition to Georg Neuhauser’s vocals, Death & Legacy also features vocals from Ailyn (Sirenia vocalist), Amanda Somerville, and Charlotte Wessels (Delain vocalist).  The guest vocals on the album add a different element to the album, though more could have been done with them.  However, it’s not as big of an issue, as Neuhauser is more than capable of carrying the album with his unmistakable vocals.  The songs to check out on the album are “Far From Home,” “When Canvas Starts to Burn,” and “To India’s Shores,” all of which show Serenity’s musical abilities, as well as how much they have grown from Words Untold and Dreams Unlived, their debut album. 

Even though the band has only released three albums, Serenity is not afraid to take on the biggest tasks in music.  With a running time of over 67 minutes, Death & Legacy has a lot to live up to justify the time, and though it does feel as long as the time indicates, Serenity continues to improve.  The only question is how else the band can challenge themselves to continue its growth and development.  Serenity is not quite elite, but they are close to it, and Death & Legacy is proof of that.

Release Date: February 25th, 2011
Label: Napalm Records

TRACK LISTING

1.  Set Sail to…
2.  New Horizons
3.  The Chevalier
4.  Far From Home
5.  Heavenly Mission
6.  Prayer
7.  State of Siege
8.  Changing Fate
9.  When Canvas Starts to Burn
10.  Serenade of Flames
11.  Youngest of Widows
12.  Below Eastern Skies
13.  Beyond Desert Sands
14.  To India’s Shores
15.  Lament
16.  My Legacy

Total playing time:  67:13

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*Comments:

Reviewer: Peter

February 17, 2011