Any metal album that opens up with a creepy song that sounds like it came straight from a horror movie music box is always an album that will catch my ear. Epysode’s sophomore release Fantasmagoria is a powerhouse of symphonic metal, with instruments and vocals that will suck you into the story of their sound.
With each song on this album, the intensity grows. It’s full of dark emotion and driving, heart pounding fury. With melodic guitars, haunting (damn good) vocals, and an overall near perfect delivery by a group of well-versed musicians - I would definitely say this is an album that by no means should go unnoticed. I was reminded of the style of Kamelot, a band I listened to once upon a time. Each song is its own epic novella, bringing you on a soulful journey. There were quite a few guest vocals on this album and the duets are done flawlessly. The harmonizing and evident chemistry between all musicians involved in the making of this album is a real no brainer. A clashing of talent cannot be found, which scores mega points for these guys.
Overall, my rating would be a strong 9 out of 10. I don’t give them a perfect 10 only because there was a song here and there that seemed to, for the most part, copy the track before it, but not a huge drawback. This is an album recommended for all fans of symphonic prog metal, so do yourself a favor and check it out!
Stevie Kopas, HMS
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