ALBUM REVIEW: Escape Of The Phoenix – Evergrey

Once you have become an established artist some bands find it difficult to stay at the level that brought along such success, especially for a prolonged length of time. Swedish prog veterans EVERGREY have proven to be an exception, only getting better with each passing release and their twelfth studio release Escape Of The Phoenix which is available now via AFM Records has only supported in cementing this fact even further.

Forever Outsider gets proceedings off to an energetic start with crunchy riffing and prominent drum beats. The uplifting vocal stylings add a more melodic accompaniment to the heavy instrumentation. Where August Mourn throws some synth work into the mix alongside the dramatic tempo. The track chops and changes in different directions to heighten the sense of intrigue. Towards the latter stages a delightful helping of leadwork is unleashed. Stories offers a particularly solemn tone produced by an evocative piano and vocal combination. As it progresses steady guitar work is introduced to enhance the theatrical nature.

A Dandelion Cipher kicks it up a gear with commanding riffs and energetic drumming whilst still providing pockets of the initially established minimalism to help build the narrative. For The Beholder the services of iconic frontman James Labrie have been acquired to provide an additional punch to the expertly executed vocal layering. The guitar work possesses a sharp, jabbing quality that creates an additional tension. In The Absence Of Sun witnesses a reprisal of the piano instrumentation that effortlessly lures you in. The enchanting vocal work slots in seamlessly. As the track picks up momentum hefty riffing makes its presence felt. Eternal Nocturnal charges onwards with powerful guitar work and meticulous drum segments which tee up a euphoric chorus piece. Mind-blowing lead work grabs all the spotlight with skilful sweeping to add an emphatic exclamation point on the track.

Just as its predecessor offers up arguably the strongest track on the album title track Escape Of The Phoenix bursts onto the scene, taking a darker, heavier turn with a down tuned riff frenzy laced with enticing grooves. Pulsing drum beats and exhilarating vocal work provide the assist in creating one hell of an anthem. You From You allows for a moment of soothing contemplation with slick, clean tones that break into surges of emotive energy. Tasteful leadwork also has its opportunity to rise forth. Leaden Saints conjures up another juggernaut of intense guitar work and effective transitions to keep you on your toes. Waves of technicality flow throughout that bring a sense of bravado to the occasion. Run isn’t about to let this release dwindle out with a tentative ballad piece as hammering drumming and vibrant melodies mesh together to give you one last rush of adrenaline before departing.

To maintain a particular level of quality and consistency over a career spanning multiple decades is no easily achievable feat but EVERGREY have somehow managed to produce an album that contains just as much promise and vigour as when they burst onto the scene back in the 90’s. Whether it is in the shape of a provoking melodic escape or a burst of feisty heaviness Escape Of The Phoenix displays that the Swedish outfit are just as comfortable at either side of the spectrum and this combo provides for an enjoyable listen which will certainly get the seal of approval.

Rating: 8/10

Escape Of The Phoenix is available now via AFM Records.

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