13

Delain - Lunar Prelude

Delain played a storming headlining set on the Sophie Lancaster stage at last year's Bloodstock Festival, which promised much for their next recorded release. The new EP Lunar Prelude doesn't disappoint, and demonstrates that symphonic metal in Delain's hands, remains fresh, passionate, and full of new musical ideas.

Commencing with a great keyboard introduction from Martin Westerholt, the lead track Suckerpunch is completely driven, with some great heavy guitar work from Timo Somers and Merel Bechtold, and the rhythm section of Rubén Israel on drums and Otto Schimmelpenninck van dear Oije on bass really smashing it, as they keep ratcheting up the songs intensity. The orchestral arrangements really complement and enhance the melodic core of the song, and feel a fully integrated part of the music. Give a listen also to the full orchestral version of the song later on the EP, that transports the music to even more epic heights.

Turn the Lights Out features a stunning Charlotte Wessels vocal, that conveys real emotional depth, and journeys effortlessly across her full and amazing vocal range. It's an outstanding vocal performance!

A new version of Don't Let Go, previously on 2014’s The Human Contradiction album, combines dance electronics and Delain's trademark symphonic metal dynamics. They charge at the listener without mercy. With a catchy chorus and bridge, it is brimming with musical ideas and passion. Another superb track!

Delain add into the mix four live tracks. If you really want to get what Delain are like live, listen to the live Army of Dolls. Alongside it's fabulous feminist message, it combines Charlotte’s soaring vocals with the intense attack of the guitars, and symphonic sounds of the keyboards. It's by turns exciting and very moving.

This EP richly deserves its top 13 rating, representing as it does a band truly at the top of their game. The evocative artwork as well shows the artistic care with which the band treats all aspects of their work. Just superb!