By David O’Neill
Swedish AOR band Art Nation have once again proven their mettle with their latest album. This new offering is a testament to the band’s evolution and their unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality rock music.
From the opening track, ‘Set Me Free’, listeners are greeted with the signature sound that fans have come to love: soaring vocals, intricate guitar riffs, and searingly quick drum and bass sections that drive the song forward with relentless energy. The blistering drums and guitar section come together seamlessly in the breakdown.
Having heard ‘Thunderball’ on the recent tour, the neo-operatic opening grabs you by the ears and shakes your head until the hook and chorus clearly demonstrate the stylistic intent of Alexander Strandell, Christopher Borg and Richard Svard. It is very similar in style to Nightwish. This is also clearly demonstrated in the opening of ‘Halo’.
The album seamlessly blends classic AOR elements with modern rock sensibilities, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary.
The powerful ballad ‘Julia’ highlights the vocal prowess of the Strandell (although this is established throughout every track), whose emotive delivery is both haunting and inspiring. One of the standout tracks, ‘Unstoppable’, showcases the band’s ability to craft unforgettable melodies and powerful lyrics that resonate with listeners and is sure to become a fan favourite at live shows.
The production quality of the album is exemplary, with the vocals and each instrument meticulously balanced to create a rich, immersive listening experience although the instrumentation on Unstoppable appears to clip in the chorus, but this may be intentional. Art Nation’s musicianship shines through in every track, demonstrating their technical skill and artistic vision.
In conclusion, Art Nation’s latest album is a triumph that solidifies their place in the AOR rock pantheon. It is a must-listen for fans of the genre and a compelling introduction for new listeners. With this release, Art Nation continues to push the boundaries of rock music while staying true to their roots.
- ‘The Ascendance‘ is released on Friday (25 April).