Therion – Leviathan - Album Streaming & Download

Origin : Sweden

Genre : Symphonic Metal

Release : 2021

Album Info / Review

Intro:
The Swedish titans of symphonic death metal, Therion, return with their fifteenth studio album, *Leviathan*, a conceptual exploration of mythical sea creatures and ancient maritime lore. Building upon the grandiosity of their previous works, *Leviathan* plunges the listener into a tempestuous sonic ocean, where crushing riffs and ethereal choirs collide with the ferocity of a kraken’s embrace. This is not merely an album; it is an epic voyage into the depths of the unknown, a testament to Therion’s enduring mastery of blending the brutal with the beautiful.

Track Analysis:
“The Sea With No End” unfurls with a cinematic flourish, a majestic orchestral intro that quickly gives way to a guttural vocal onslaught and a driving, mid-paced rhythm section. The guitars weave intricate melodic lines over a foundation of palm-muted aggression, while the female operatic vocals provide a stark, haunting counterpoint to Christofer Johnsson’s powerful growls. “To Mega Therion” (a nod to their namesake) bursts forth with a relentless energy, featuring a more aggressive tempo and a blistering guitar solo that showcases technical prowess without sacrificing melodic sensibility. The chorus is anthemic, a call to arms for the mythical beasts of the deep. “Leviathan” itself is a sprawling, multi-layered composition, beginning with a brooding, atmospheric passage before erupting into a full-blown symphonic assault. The interplay between the heavy instrumentation and the rich choral arrangements is particularly striking here, creating a sense of immense scale and power. “Rider on the Storm” injects a more bluesy, almost doom-laden feel into the proceedings, with a sludgy riff and a more restrained vocal performance, showcasing the band’s versatility. The inclusion of subtle organ textures adds to the brooding atmosphere. “Bringer of War” is a high-octane track, characterized by rapid-fire drumming and sharp, aggressive guitar riffs that evoke the chaotic fury of a naval battle. The operatic interludes are more pronounced and dramatic, adding a theatrical element. “Child of the Damned” offers a moment of melodic respite, featuring a more accessible, almost power metal-infused chorus with soaring female vocals that are both captivating and melancholic. The guitar work here is more focused on melodic hooks and memorable solos. “The Siren of the Sea” is an atmospheric centerpiece, building slowly with ethereal female vocals and delicate instrumentation before culminating in a crushing, distorted crescendo. The use of strings and keyboards creates a sense of watery expanse and siren-like allure. “The Serpent’s Eye” returns to a more direct, aggressive approach, with a driving rhythm and a relentless vocal delivery. The guitar solos are sharp and precise, cutting through the dense sonic tapestry. “Great Beasts of the Sea” is a triumphant, almost celebratory track, with a majestic chorus and powerful vocal harmonies that evoke the grandeur of ancient sea gods. The orchestral elements are particularly prominent, lending an air of epic fantasy. “The Leviathan’s Call” closes the album with a reprise of thematic elements, a powerful and conclusive statement that leaves the listener with a sense of awe and satisfaction, a final descent into the abyss.

Conclusion:
*Leviathan* stands as a formidable entry in Therion’s extensive discography. The band has managed to refine their signature sound, pushing the boundaries of symphonic death metal with a greater emphasis on thematic coherence and sonic depth. The production is crystal clear, allowing each instrument to breathe and contribute to the overall majestic tapestry. While the album maintains a consistent level of quality, certain tracks distinguish themselves through their sheer impact and compositional brilliance. Therion continues to prove that they are not content to rest on their laurels, consistently delivering ambitious and captivating musical narratives.