Previously the vocalist for such acts as the Symphonic Metal Evenmore, as well as the more Electronic/Alternative Metal Rage of Light, in 2018, Melissa Bonny opted to strictly concentrate on a new project called Ad Infinitum. Latin for “to infinity,” Bonny’s work ethic truly lived up to the name, as she poured all of herself into it.
Soon taking shape as a full band by 2019, joining her were German Drummer Niklas Müller, Guitarist Adrian Thessenvitz, and Bassist Korbinian Benedict. Ambitious, they released two well-received albums; 2020’s Chapter I – Monarchy, followed promptly in 2021 by Chapter II – Legacy. Offering a mix of Symphonic Metal, with some other elements, the band’s sound is something that would easily appeal to fans of Within Temptation, Amaranthe, or Delain. However, where Ad Infinitum separates themselves is that Bonny can not only sing in a lovely mezzo-soprano voice but also switch to a thicker growl with ease. Rather unique, her talents make the growth process of Ad Infinitum worth looking into as they return in 2023 with Chapter III – Downfall.
Their third album in the past four years, in-between that, they also released an acoustic version of 2020’s Chapter I – Monarchy, plus a compilation called Echoes of Monarchy in 2022. An expansive amount of material from what is a relatively new band, what could Chapter III – Downfall have to offer? Released on March 31st through Napalm Records, it can really be looked at as a sign of progression. Including twelve new songs, along with two instrumentals of album tracks, Bonny and Ad Infinitum build on everything they have plotted out since the start. Complete with sharp riffs, a livelier atmosphere, and even catchier vocals, it is a very solid step forward.
Breaking it down, Bonny’s voice seems to dance around the scale freely with Chapter III – Downfall. Now, if you are unfamiliar with Chapter I – Monarchy or Chapter II – Legacy, perhaps you should backtrack to them for further reference. These albums, at times more mellow, others more robustly symphonic, each have similar elements to Chapter II – Legacy. However, it seems as if the band has honed everything a bit better this time around. One could argue this album is more Pop-driven, but that is not necessarily a negative thing, because the songs are undeniably quite memorable.
Looking at it from afar, some of the bold attention grabbers include “Eternal Rains,” “Upside Down,” “Seth” and the beautiful “Somewhere Better.” Beyond this, “Legends,” featuring Eluveitie’s Chrigel Glanzmann, “Architect of Paradise,” and the very Pop-vibed “New Dawn” also hook you in.
Overall, Chapter III – Downfall is a very polished album full of rich sounds. Including orchestration from Dragonlands’ Elias Holmlid and production of Jacob Hansen, it is an album that will have grand appeal to fans of the genre. As mentioned, it is very catchy, but the truest selling point here is that the songwriting seems to have strengthened for Ad Infinitum. As a result of this, Melissa Bonny’s voice shines even brighter. No doubt a superb vocalist who can dance all around the scale, it will be compelling to see what comes with Chapter IV.
Only time will tell if Ad Infinitum will continue to move forward at a breakneck speed or slow down some. They are currently scheduled to perform a couple of shows in Bonny’s home country of Switzerland in March of 2024, but beyond this, the future is wide open. Curious to hear more, Cryptic Rock gives Chapter III – Downfall 4 out of 5 stars.
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