Over the last decade the Swedish band Soen has paved their own path in the Metal world. A band with origins that date back to 2004, but did not official form until 2010, they were founded by then Opeth Drummer Martín López, along with Sadus Bassist Steve Di Giorgio, Willowtree Vocalist Joel Ekelöf, and Guitarist Joakim Platbarzdis. A very strong lineup, some pieces have shifted through the years, with Keyboardist Lars Enok Åhlund joining in 2014, Guitarist Cody Lee Ford in 2018, and Bassist Oleksii ‘Zlatoyar’ Kobel coming into the mix in 2020.
Considered by many to be a Progressive Metal act, but truthfully not fitting within any particular boundaries, Soen have put out five studio albums (from 2012’s Cognitive to 2021’a Imperial), plus the live album Atlantis in 2022. That is a mass of music for any band in a decade’s span, and now in 2023 Soen strikes the iron while it is hot yet again, releasing their sixth studio album Memorial.
An album conceived at a very dark time in human history, where it seems like world governments universally are vastly overreaching into individual’s personal freedoms and pinning people against one another, Soen harnesses this anxiety of humanity into something thoughtful and empowering. Full of razor-sharp riffs, extremely tight production, and engaging lyrics, the ten songs that make up Memorial fit together rather well.
Promoted by three singles prior to the album’s September 1st release through Silver Lining Music, what best describes the album is a mix of melodic heaviness, distinctive vocals from Ekelöf, and carefully crafted song structures. As mentioned, defined by some as a Progressive Metal act, yes, there are some progressive elements here, but these songs are much more refined in Hard Rock, and truthfully would appeal to a very broad range of heavier Rock music listeners.
Running at just over 43 minutes, the entire record is an even collection with no dull moments. However, some favorites would have to include “Sincere,” the single “Unbreakable,” “Icon,” “Violence,” but also the very beautiful slower track “Hollowed” which features guest vocals from Italian Singer Elisa. And then there is “Tragedian,” a truly defining moment in presenting the intent of this entire album. Attention grabbing, “Tragedian” showcases the band’s truest artistry and it is an absolute must listen.
If you are looking for something new to dig into, Soen’s Memorial might be what you are looking for. Potent, heavy, yet a step beyond what many others are doing currently in the Metal/Hard Rock world, this album will please their fans, but should also earn attention of those who might have missed them over the years. For being musically fresh, but for not shoving heaviness or dazzling skills in your face for the sake of self indulgence, Cryptic Rock gives Memorial 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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