Therion – Crowning Of Atlantis - Album Streaming & Download

Origin : Sweden

Genre : Symphonic Metal

Release : 1999

Album Info / Review

Intro:
Therion, the Swedish architects of symphonic metal, have a discography that reads like a tome of arcane knowledge, each album a meticulously crafted chapter. “Crowning of Atlantis,” released in 1999, finds the band at a fascinating juncture, navigating the burgeoning complexities of their signature sound while retaining a visceral, albeit polished, metallic core. This is not the bombastic opera of later years, nor the raw aggression of their early death metal phase. Instead, “Crowning of Atlantis” presents a refined, almost regal, evolution, where gothic melodies intertwine with driving rhythms and a nascent embrace of choral arrangements that would come to define their subsequent sonic explorations. The album feels less like a battle cry and more like a grand, albeit somber, procession through ancient ruins, illuminated by flickering torchlight and the echoing pronouncements of forgotten deities.

Track Analysis:
“Crowning of Atlantis” opens with “The Rise of Sodom and Gomorrah,” a pulsating, mid-tempo anthem. The intro is marked by a heavy, almost industrial-tinged guitar riff, immediately establishing a sense of imposing grandeur. The clean vocals, delivered with a melancholic timbre, are layered over a foundation of powerful drumming and a prominent bassline. The song builds organically, incorporating subtle synth textures that hint at the symphonic elements to come.

“Birth of Venus” shifts the tempo, offering a more melodic and accessible, yet still substantial, track. The guitar work here is more intricate, with soaring leads that carry a distinct sense of yearning. The female vocals, introduced with understated grace, begin to weave their magic, creating a beautiful counterpoint to the male vocals. The song’s structure is classic Therion, featuring a dynamic ebb and flow between heavier passages and more atmospheric interludes.

“The King of Eden” is a testament to the band’s growing compositional maturity. It’s a sprawling, epic piece that showcases their ability to blend disparate elements. The orchestral arrangements, while not yet as expansive as on future releases, are present and impactful, adding a layer of sophistication. The vocal interplay between male and female singers is particularly noteworthy, creating a dramatic narrative.

“The Desire of the Gods” delves into darker, more brooding territory. The riffs are heavier and more aggressive, reminiscent of their earlier work, but the overall mood is one of somber reflection. The inclusion of a choir, even if in its nascent stages, adds a significant weight and gravitas to the track.

“The Voice of the Voice” offers a more introspective and gothic atmosphere. The clean guitars are prominent, creating a delicate melodic tapestry. The vocals are delivered with a palpable sense of vulnerability, and the subtle keyboard work enhances the overall melancholic ambiance.

“Providence” is a standout track, a powerful and anthemic composition. It features a driving rhythm section and a memorable vocal melody. The guitar solos are technically proficient and emotionally resonant, adding a crucial layer of intensity. The track feels like a pivotal moment in the album’s narrative, a declaration of intent.

“The Falling God” returns to a heavier, more driving sound. The riffing is aggressive and relentless, propelled by a thunderous rhythm section. The vocal delivery is more guttural at times, injecting a raw energy that balances the symphonic elements.

“The Restless Lady” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad. The acoustic guitar intro sets a fragile tone, which is then built upon by soaring female vocals and subtle string arrangements. It’s a moment of serene beauty amidst the album’s more imposing sonic landscapes.

“The Awakening of the Angel” is an instrumental interlude that serves as a bridge, showcasing the band’s proficiency in creating atmospheric soundscapes. It’s a brief but effective moment of sonic contemplation.

“The Crowning of Atlantis” concludes with the title track, an ambitious and multi-faceted epic. It’s a culmination of the album’s thematic and musical threads, featuring a rich tapestry of orchestral arrangements, intricate guitar work, and powerful vocal performances. The track shifts through various moods and tempos, creating a sense of grand conclusion, a fitting end to this sonic odyssey.

Conclusion:
“Crowning of Atlantis” stands as a crucial evolutionary step for Therion. It successfully bridges the gap between their earlier, more extreme metal leanings and the fully realized symphonic operas that would follow. The album is characterized by its sophisticated songwriting, a compelling blend of heavy riffs and melodic grandeur, and the nascent but effective integration of orchestral and choral elements. While it might not possess the sheer operatic scale of later masterpieces, it offers a raw, potent, and deeply atmospheric journey into the heart of their evolving sound. It’s an album that rewards repeated listens, revealing new layers of detail and emotional resonance with each immersion.