Label : Ravenheart Music
Review by Tony Cannella
Finland’s Embassy of Silence first burst onto the scene via their excellent debut album “Euphorialight” in 2010, impressive is an understatement when referring to that album, sonically; musically and melodically it was a stellar debut. Now, the band returns with their sophomore effort, “Antler Velvet”.
From the opening track “Trickster Queen” it is obvious that Embassy of Silence has not lost any of their ability to write good hard driving, melodic heavy rock songs. This song reminded me what I loved about their debut. “Unconverted” is next and quickly became another huge favorite thanks to its barrage of heavy riffs and vocalist Ines Lukkanen’s smooth delivery. “Antler Velvet” includes 10-songs and 48-minutes worth of some strong material and well written songs. “The Gemini Ascendant” has a dark, haunting vibe to it. One of the more unique songs on “Antler Velvet” is “Harbour of Naryon”. On this track Ines gives way to guest male vocalist Ilpo Paasela from The Chant for the majority of the song. This track also creates a certain dark and conceptual atmosphere and the track definitely stands out. Other highlights include: “The Auryn Virus”, “Minotaur” and “Prodigal Son”. While it would be hard (virtually impossible) to top the awesomeness of their debut, Embassy of Silenced have certainly released a worthy successor with “Antler Velvet”.
Rating – 88/100
Tracklist
- Trickster Queen
- Unconverted
- The Gemini Ascendant
- Auryn Virus
- Conundrum
- Minotaur
- Harbour of Naryon
- Through Unknown Gateways
- Prodigal Son
- Touch the Zenith
Line Up
- Ines Lukkanen – Vocals
- Tero Kalliomäki – Lead Guitars
- Jarno Suodenjoki – Rhythm Guitars
- Samu Lahtinen – Bass
- Harri Koskela – Keyboards
- Make Lievonen – Drums
Links