Vocalist Sharon den Adel is blessed with the combination of a soft, beautiful tone as well as contemporary sonics that can deplete the ozone layer. The duo of den Adel and guitarist Robert Westerholt are the heart and soul of the revered Dutch symphonic metal band, Within Temptation.
Together for a remarkable 26 years, the pair are set to release their eighth studio album, Bleed Out, on October 20.
For the uninitiated, symphonic metal is defined as “any metal band that makes use of symphonic or orchestral elements. The style features the heavy drums and guitars of metal with different elements of orchestral classical music, such as symphonic instruments, choirs and sometimes a full orchestra.”
Within Temptation is a heavyweight among the genre, but they bring much more to the table. Never afraid to speak their minds with the music they make, Bleed Out tackles heavy subjects like the war in Ukraine and in the title track, the plight of women fighting for freedom in Iran.
“The war in Ukraine has influenced us a lot,” said den Adel. “As artists we are inspired by the world, and we have this platform. We are storytellers, and I think as human beings, these are things we should be talking about.”
The first of 11 tracks, “We Go To War,” marches the album into battle. The feel is pure tribalism when Sharon proclaims, “when we hear the call, we go to war!”
“Wireless” and “Ritual” are two of the best examples of the anthemic songwriting that is woven throughout Bleed Out. It’s easy to envision fists pumping in unison at their live shows when these songs are unleashed on their hungry fans.
The eerie, haunting “Don’t Pray for Me” is borderline creepy – in the very best of ways! This one is a highlight and features the guitar, bass and drum ensemble that drives the unholy groove throughout the song.
The album’s closer, “Unbroken,” is a powerful burst of melodic metal energy. Featuring a cool vibe, a powerful guitar lick and of course, Sharon’s trademark vocal timbre, it makes you want to go back to the top and give it another listen.
With their outspoken takes on societal issues, hard and heavy rock/metal riffs and of course, captivating vocals, Within Temptation has a fearless approach to music. Bleed Out checks every box.
Review by I’m Music Magazine Writer Steve Pawlowski
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