The Italian symphonic death metal band Fleshgod Apocalypse is back with their long-awaited fifth full-length album, “Opera”. In my opinion, this is one of the band’s finest works to date.
The opening track, “Ode to Art De Sepolcri”, as the title suggests, is a noble and refined piece of art. It’s crafted with melancholic, profound melodies and features the superb, delicate yet powerful soprano voice of Veronica Bordacchini, giving listeners a glimpse of the epic journey they’re about to embark on.
The next track, “I Can Never Die,” wastes no time showcasing the band’s signature heavy sound, with thunderous drums, Francesco Paoli’s incredible deep growls, and Veronica’s always angelic voice creating a perfect balance.
Tracks like “Morphine Waltz” and “Till Death Do Us Part” perfectly encapsulate what fans look for in symphonic death metal: intricate, delicate melodies filled with melancholy, seamlessly intertwined with the raw power of heavy, dynamic vocals from both ends of the spectrum.
“Per Aspera Ad Astra” stands out with its breathtaking chorus and intense atmosphere. It evokes a sense of apocalyptic foreboding, while still leaving a faint glimmer of hope lingering in the air.
The album concludes with the instrumental title track, “Opera,” a poignant finale that feels like a warm embrace. It wraps up this masterpiece with elegance, leaving you reflecting on life, art, and the incredible journey of these 10 tracks.
So close your eyes and prepare to immerse yourself in an epic odyssey.
Needless to say, Fleshgod Apocalypse never disappoints. Without a shadow of a doubt, they remain one of the greatest symphonic death metal acts of all time.
