In life there are certain catch-22 situations that cross our path. In the case of Sweden’s Anette Olzon, this paradox arrived in 2007 when she took over as the lead vocalist of powerhouse Symphonic Metal band Nightwish. A dream come true to for a highly dedicated, passionate lady, the challenge up against her was replacing an extremely beloved Tarja Turunen. Fortunately, Olzon was up to the task and did a sensational job on both the 2007 Nightwish album Dark Passion Play, as well as 2011’s Imaginaerum. Adding a new texture to the sound of Nightwish, in the face of some fickle fans, Olzon stood her ground, thus crowning herself a force to be reckoned with.
Then, after a 5-year run with Nightwish Olzon was unceremoniously dismissed from the band; inevitably being replaced by After Forever’s Floor Jansen. A somber ending to what could have been a lengthier partnership, Olzon kept moving forward without a hiccup and launched into a solo career. At this point seeking to solidify an identity outside Nightwish, as well as projects she was in prior to joining them, her 2014 debut album Shine did just that with songs that were solely all her own. Filled with a message of overcoming adversity, ultimately Olzon would then join up with former Sonata Arctica Guitarist Jani Liimatainen to create the band The Dark Element. From here putting out two albums with The Dark Element, she would also team up with Symphony X’s Russell Allen for two more albums between 2020 and 2022, all while also releasing the impressive Strong on her own in 2021.
Keeping herself busy and exploring different elements of her musical personality, now in 2024 Olzon offers what could be her most explosive solo album to date. Entitled Rapture, and set for release on May 10th through Frontiers Music s.r.l., the new endeavor is heavier, more symphonic, and as a result more intense than her prior works. Explaining this statement a bit more, previously Shine and Strong were both quality melodic Metal albums, but with Rapture it feels like Olzon cranked the heat up a few notches to drive home an epic sounding collection of songs. Teaming with Johan Husgafvel, who adds a new dynamic with harsher, growling backing vocals, returning from the 2021 Strong sessions is also Drummer Anders Köllerfors, plus multi-instrumentalist Magnus Karlsson (who is known for his work with Primal Fear). Working together, Rapture poses itself as an elite Symphonic Metal album up against anything currently out there from the genre’s biggest bands.
A bold statement, there is an inherent energy amidst these songs that is undeniably real, but also beaming with a sentiment many can relate with. Speaking of the tragic state of humanity, much of the messaging here is about rising up from the negativity, standing for something you believe in, and ultimately trying to blaze a better path for the currently broken, divisive plague ruling us. Inspiring a call to action in a way that makes you reevaluate your own life’s path; it is more about doing what you can to create a better world with small steps in an attempt to become a more complete version of yourself. In enough words, it is not about taking on the world in a grander scheme, but perhaps about taking a step back to see what you can do better. After all, it has been said, “Save one life and you save the world.”
This very clear theme of hope in times of darkness saturates the fabric that is Rapture. However, what also stands out here is the song structures which remain interesting with peaks, valleys, and plenty of texture amidst each. Featuring 11 songs that deliver a high-octane of energy, some of the most ear-tingling moments arrive within “Heed The Call,” “Rapture,” “Day of Wrath,” and “Requiem.” However, other very clear standouts also include “Greedy World,” as well as “Head Up High.”
In truth, it is difficult to find a dull spot in any of Rapture’s playtime. It is an album with laser point focus, carefully crafted compositions, and a sustained energy that is second to none. Truly impressive and something fans of Symphonic Metal fans must check out, Cryptic Rock gives Rapture 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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