Released on: 26th March 2021
A new album from Swedes’ Metalite is bound to be an exciting mix of bubbly power metal cheese heaped up on toasty riffs. Then, set atop fine rhythms that will have your foot tapping, head bopping more than a cat jamming to whatever dub is layered over its viral video. A Virtual World does not disappoint in this respect. Offering a fantastic new recipe for a good time that is as accessible as Eurovision but a hundred and one times more refined.
A Virtual World is the groups third album and the second release with Erica Ohlsson, whose vocals sound more confident and familiar on this album. And, shows the bands sound maturing. However, the optimism that Metalite have been known to inspire is still firmly there. Which almost seems like a juxtaposition between growing up and remaining full of wonder. Metalite manage to meld those characteristics into one near-fifty minute palatable treat.
Once again the band merge meticulous sound production with sweeping arps and simple choruses. Amalgamating them into a comprehensive collection of anthem-like tracks that, if it was the 90’s, would get lighters high in a sea of raised hands. A Virtual World may not be musically ambitious over the groups previous records but it does contain enough magic to fly on its own merits.
Metalite are one of the most conductive acts in the power metal scene as they close their first trilogy with a headstrong social commentary. Resplendent with beautiful synths, devilish harmonies and easily memorable sound bytes. Fit all that in with excellent songwriting and fantastic rhythm this third entry is a definite fan pleaser. Yet, it leaves room for further development and an even brighter future.
8/10
