The name Floor Jansen is one that has been known and respected among many underground Metal fans for over two decades. Initially the vocalist for Gothic Metal band After Forever, she would also work with the Progressive Metal act Star One, form the band ReVamp in 2009, and join international stars Nightwish full-time in 2013. Keeping extremely busy over the last decade with Nightwish, Jansen even found the time to create music with the more Hard Rock driven Northward in 2018, but believe it or not, she has never put out a solo record. A surprising discovery when you think about it, fortunately with some downtime amidst Nightwish touring, Jansen had a chance to work on her own songs, and that comes in the form of Paragon.
Released on March 24, 2023, the album is ten songs in total, and wholly a very smooth listen. Different from what Jansen has done with prior projects, Paragon is more Pop driven in many respects. Not a bad thing, her brand of Contemporary Pop is on par with the likes of Celine Dion, Annie Lennox, or even Bonnie Tyler. Now, it is not to say Jansen sounds like any of the aforementioned artists, but this is a good assimilation for you to understand what to expect.
This in mind, you can expect bright, colorful, more Pop Rock in vain of some of the highest quality material that dominated radio waves in the late ‘90s into the early 2000s. With that, the product is polished yet full of dynamics and Jansen’s voice shines bright without any added technological altering.
Furthermore, the more subbed compositions of these tracks allow fans a chance to experience Jansen’s voice like they never have before. Why? Because opposed to having to battle with loud guitars and drums, her voice is given a chance to take center stage without clutter. With so much to enjoy, there are danceable moments, as heard on “My Paragon,” but by and large most of these tracks are vocally driven. Very emotional, the standouts include “Daydream,” “Hope,” and “Come Full Circle”… which is very Journey-vibed. Then there are more experimental elements heard on songs like “Me Without You,” and this really keeps the listening experience interesting.
Overall, Floor Jansen has put together a Pop record that fans of mature, thoughtful music will want to hear. Additionally, if you are a Metal fan who just likes Metal, not to worry, because this album does have guitars… it is just more Pop Rock sounding. Reminding you good Pop music still does exist, but most of all, that in a world where everyone sounds like processed robots, a true vocalist can still excel. That is why Cryptic Rock gives Paragon 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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