Therion – Leviathan II - Album Streaming & Download

Origin : Sweden

Genre : Symphonic Metal

Release : 2022

Album Info / Review

Intro:
Therion, the Swedish titans of symphonic and gothic metal, return with *Leviathan II*, the second installment in their ambitious trilogy exploring the mythical leviathan and its dominion over the oceans. Following the grand, often bombastic, but occasionally uneven *Leviathan*, this sequel dives deeper into the abyss, showcasing a refined maturity and a more focused thematic execution. While *Leviathan* felt like an exploration, *Leviathan II* solidifies Therion’s command of the deep, weaving intricate tapestries of sound that evoke both the crushing weight of the ocean’s depths and the ethereal beauty of its hidden currents. The band’s signature blend of operatic vocals, heavy guitar riffs, and orchestral arrangements is present, but here it feels more integrated, less like disparate elements vying for attention and more like a cohesive, leviathanic entity.

Track Analysis:
“The Shadow of a Dream” opens the album with a brooding atmosphere, featuring a mournful cello melody that gradually gives way to a driving, yet melancholic, guitar riff. The choral arrangements are subtle at first, building in intensity as Christofer Johnsson’s gravelly vocals trade lines with the soaring soprano of a guest vocalist, creating a powerful duality. “Garden of Stars” shifts gears, presenting a more upbeat tempo with a prominent, almost folk-like acoustic guitar intro before erupting into a full-blown symphonic metal onslaught. The choir here is immense, painting vivid sonic landscapes of celestial bodies and cosmic journeys, underpinned by a surprisingly agile bassline. “Tuonela” (a Finnish mythological underworld) is a standout, a masterclass in atmospheric storytelling. It’s characterized by its haunting Finnish folk melodies, interwoven with crushing doom-laden riffs and a palpable sense of ancient dread. The use of traditional instruments, like the kantele, adds an authentic and deeply evocative layer. “Hooves of the Devil” injects a dose of raw, unadulterated power. The guitars are thick and menacing, the drumming is relentless, and the vocal performance is aggressive, eschewing the operatic for a more guttural delivery that perfectly suits the track’s dark, almost thrash-influenced undertones. “Leviathan” itself, the title track, is a colossal undertaking. It’s an epic ballad that builds slowly, starting with a sparse piano and vocal intro before swelling into a magnificent orchestral crescendo. The guest vocalists are given ample space to shine, their voices intertwining in a breathtaking display of vocal prowess. The track’s length allows for a nuanced development, exploring themes of awe and terror in equal measure. “Die Wellen der Zeit” (The Waves of Time) is a more traditional symphonic metal track, with a soaring chorus and intricate guitar solos that showcase the technical skill of the musicians. The orchestral arrangements are grand and majestic, evoking images of ancient seafaring voyages. “The Darkest Hour” returns to a more subdued, introspective mood. It’s a somber piece, driven by a mournful violin and a sparse, echoing guitar. The vocals are delivered with a palpable sense of despair, creating a deeply emotional experience. “The Calling” is a more aggressive, almost industrial-tinged track. The electronic elements are more pronounced here, adding a modern edge to Therion’s established sound. The chanting vocals create a sense of ritualistic invocation, leading to a powerful, cathartic climax. “The Trinity” is a complex, multi-layered composition. It shifts through various tempos and moods, from heavy, driving sections to delicate, ethereal passages. The interplay between the operatic vocals and the heavier instrumentation is particularly striking, showcasing Therion’s ability to balance contrasting elements seamlessly. “Elan” is a surprisingly upbeat and accessible track, featuring a catchy melody and a more straightforward song structure. It’s a welcome respite from the darker themes, while still retaining the album’s symphonic grandeur. “The Spell of Iron” is a powerful, anthemic closer, bringing the album to a thunderous conclusion. The guitars are heavy, the drums are thunderous, and the choir is at its most triumphant, leaving the listener with a sense of awe and resolution.

Conclusion:
*Leviathan II* is a triumphant return to form for Therion, a meticulously crafted album that surpasses its predecessor in both depth and execution. The band has managed to refine their signature sound, creating a more cohesive and thematically resonant listening experience. The integration of diverse vocalists, traditional instruments, and a broader range of musical influences has resulted in an album that is both epic and intimate, brutal and beautiful. While *Leviathan* hinted at the potential, *Leviathan II* fully realizes it, solidifying Therion’s position as masters of symphonic metal. This is an album that demands repeated listens, revealing new layers of complexity and sonic richness with each immersion into its oceanic depths.