Released on: 21st July 2023
Mystfall, not to be confused with the classless LARP, are so fresh that they do not have an Encyllopaedia Metallum page yet (as of a couple of days before their debut albums’ release.) The Athenian group, fronted by soprano Marialene Trikoglou (Horrorgraphy, Marialena,) are ready to introduce the world to their debut symphonic metal album– Celestial Vision. Genre aficionados will know what to expect but that should not detract from the overall package.
Celestial Vision shows a high degree of musicianship. With the guitar firmly in harmony to the chords laid out by the orchestration (synths.) Any decoration throughout the album is a deliberate pursuit. And, given its own share of the limelight. This is in contrast to the heavy operatic vocals which pervade throughout the track list, obviously. However, with such a strong vocal presence this might not have been apparent. That is important, as it shows less reliance on the, albeit wonderful, vocals to carry the tune. On the album the songs do not try hard to impress but when they do impress it is befitting of the piece.
Talented musicianship and harmonic synergy does not create a hit record however. The songs, and while the songs on the album are very good, suffer from intensity. An affliction that in this age of constant advertising has eroded the art of minimalism, and silence, in music. What this means is that the peaks are never far from the path; the heights of the verse is often barely a step up from the chorus.
Celestial Vision is a potent debut and a decent album. With its only downside a lack of external influence. Set firmly in the ways of modern rock cum classical. Where a touch of Other culture could make it stand out from the plethora of other symphonic acts. Playing it safe on this their debut Mystfall offer a comforting space to spend some time in.
8/10
