Origin : Japan
Genre : Symphonic Power Metal
Release : 2017 (EP)
Album downloads only available to members
Album Info / Review
Intro:
Unlucky Morpheus, a Japanese powerhouse of symphonic and power metal, unleashes “Black Pentagram,” an album that delves into the shadowy depths of their sonic tapestry. This is not a collection of ethereal melodies; rather, it’s a meticulously crafted assault, weaving intricate neoclassical guitar solos with a relentless percussive backbone and operatic vocalizations that possess a palpable darkness. The production is polished yet retains a raw, unyielding aggression, allowing each instrument to breathe while contributing to a cohesive and overwhelming auditory experience. “Black Pentagram” represents a maturation of their sound, a confident stride into more aggressive and thematically heavier territories, without sacrificing the characteristic melodicism that has defined them.
Track Analysis:
1. **”Black Pentagram”**: The title track explodes forth with a galloping rhythm, immediately establishing a sense of urgency. The interplay between the driving double bass and the soaring lead guitar is masterful, evoking images of a ritualistic summoning. The vocal performance is a potent blend of power and theatricality, shifting effortlessly from clear, commanding pronouncements to guttural growls that add a visceral edge. The bridge features a particularly intricate guitar solo that showcases Fuki’s impressive technicality and melodic sensibility, building to a crescendo that perfectly mirrors the song’s thematic intensity.
2. **”Crimson Tears”**: This track offers a slightly more melancholic introspection. The tempo is still robust, but the melodic lines are imbued with a sense of sorrow. The keyboard arrangements are more prominent here, providing a lush, almost mournful backdrop that contrasts effectively with the biting guitar riffs. Fuki’s vocal delivery is more restrained but no less impactful, conveying a profound sense of loss. The guitar solo, while still technically proficient, leans more towards emotional expression, weeping with a beautiful, yet tragic, tone.
3. **”Shadow Puppets”**: A more straightforward, albeit still complex, power metal anthem. The riffing is sharp and aggressive, driving the song forward with relentless energy. The chorus is anthemic and memorable, designed to be sung along to with fists pumping. The drumming is particularly noteworthy, with intricate fills and a powerful snare presence that anchors the song’s aggressive momentum. The neoclassical influences are present in the rapid-fire arpeggios that punctuate the verses.
4. **”Serpent’s Kiss”**: This is where Unlucky Morpheus truly embraces their darker inclinations. The tempo slows to a more deliberate, crushing pace. The guitar tones are heavier, bordering on doom metal, with thick, distorted power chords. The vocal performance incorporates a significant amount of harsh vocals, interspersed with Fuki’s signature operatic flair, creating a chilling duality. The instrumental break features a surprisingly jazzy bassline that adds an unexpected, yet welcome, layer of complexity to the oppressive atmosphere.
5. **”The Abyss Gazes Back”**: A sprawling epic that showcases the band’s full compositional prowess. It shifts dynamically through various moods and tempos, from blistering symphonic passages to moments of quiet, brooding tension. The orchestral arrangements are vast and cinematic, creating a grand, almost cinematic soundscape. The guitar work is diverse, ranging from blistering solos to intricate, harmonized passages. The vocal performance is a tour de force, demonstrating an incredible range and emotional depth.
6. **”Eternal Nightmare”**: This track leans heavily into the neoclassical and power metal fusion. The speed is breakneck, with relentless double-bass drumming and lightning-fast guitar runs. The melody is undeniably catchy, but it’s delivered with a ferocity that prevents it from becoming saccharine. The guitar solo is a dizzying display of technical skill, a whirlwind of shredding that is both impressive and exhilarating.
7. **”Veil of Lies”**: A more mid-tempo track that focuses on a powerful, groove-laden riff. The emphasis here is on the rhythmic foundation, with the bass and drums locking in to create a head-banging momentum. The vocals are strong and assertive, with a clear emphasis on lyrical delivery. The guitar solo is more melodic and blues-infused than on previous tracks, adding a different flavor to the album’s overall sonic palette.
8. **”Whispers in the Dark”**: This is the album’s most atmospheric and arguably most experimental track. It begins with a sparse, haunting keyboard melody and spoken-word passages, gradually building in intensity with the introduction of subtle guitar textures and a pulsing, electronic beat. The vocal performance is ethereal and haunting, creating a sense of unease and mystery. It’s a bold departure that showcases the band’s willingness to push boundaries.
9. **”Steel & Sorcery”**: A return to the more aggressive, high-octane power metal that defines a significant portion of the album. The riffs are sharp and driving, the drums are thunderous, and the vocals are powerful and commanding. The song features a strong sense of melody, with a memorable chorus that will undoubtedly resonate with fans. The guitar solo is a classic display of shredding prowess, blending speed and melodicism.
10. **”Blackened Heart”**: The album closer is a fittingly epic conclusion. It’s a grand, symphonic metal piece that incorporates elements from throughout the album. The tempo varies, building to a powerful, anthemic finale. The vocal performance is at its most emotive, conveying a sense of catharsis and resolution. The final guitar solo is a majestic, soaring affair, leaving the listener with a lasting impression of Unlucky Morpheus’s formidable talent.
Conclusion:
“Black Pentagram” is a triumphant statement from Unlucky Morpheus. They have successfully navigated the treacherous waters between symphonic grandeur and raw, aggressive metal, emerging with an album that is both technically brilliant and emotionally resonant. The thematic darkness is palpable, but it never overshadows the band’s inherent musicality. This is an album that demands repeat listens, revealing new layers of complexity and sonic detail with each immersion. It solidifies their position as a leading force in the Japanese metal scene and a compelling act for any fan of intricate, heavy, and melodic music.
Rating: 4.5/5
Highlight Track: “The Abyss Gazes Back”
