WITHIN TEMPTATION – Resist (2019)
Dutch symphonic metal group WITHIN TEMPTATION are on the rise again: after some troubles with the production of their seventh studio album “Resist”, finally it will be released next February.
Within Temptation is notorious for incorporating various genres and influences into their sound. It has even caused associated with different sub-genres like goth and melodic metal to hard rock. Varying influences on each album make it easy to see where this comes from.
However, they are most notably described as a symphonic metal band. While it may blur the lines occasionally, it is a practice the band has not forsaken yet.
“Resist” boasts generous tides of sympho while not quite relying on its laurels to carry it. Hiding within are many sonic nuances. Like digging through a musical treasure chest and finding gems in ordinary items.
Opening this dark opus is “The Reckoning” which introduces itself to listeners with a battle-like fanfare. As if it were preparing an army and calling them to arms. Sharon den Adel’s voice soar, while guest Jacoby Shaddix of Papa Roach provides a solid, deeper contrast. The result infuses more of a hard rock edge into the song.
“Endless War” goes in a different direction. The beat is reminiscent of something you’d find in modern pop. It sounds like a strange combination, and perhaps it is. It does add a nice, unexpected groove to the song. There is a beautiful piano piece hiding underneath which is only entirely noticeable as the outro.
“Firelight” adds a goth touch in a sultry, melodic way — a mystery that envelopes you but never quite unravels to the truth. One thing that isn’t a mystery is the appearance of Jasper Steverlinck (Arid) on vocals.
In yet another twist, “Raise Your Banner” summons sympho elements, twisting them into heavier instrumentation. There is another guest appearance here for good effect, this time by Anders Friden of In Flames.
There are songs like the “Supernova” and the extremely catchy “Magic Mirror” that show the shift to commercial pop-heavy but reflect Within Temptation’s great sense for big melodies too.
Within Temptation’s “Resist” mix styles even more than any previous effort. It’s the most mature one the band ever released and it feels like the beginning of a next era of the band.
Don’t worry, if you like the band it’s still 100% Within Temptation what you get.
01 – The Reckoning
02 – Endless War
03 – Raise Your Banner
04 – Supernova
05 – Holy Ground
06 – In Vain
07 – Firelight
08 – Mad World
09 – Mercy Mirror
10 – Trophy Hunter
Sharon den Adel – lead vocals
Ruud Jolie – guitars
Robert Westerholt – guitars
Stefan Helleblad – guitars
Martijn Spierenburg – keyboards
Jeroen van Veen – bass guitar
Mike Coolen – drums
guest musicians;
Jacoby Shaddix – male vocals on “The Reckoning”
Anders Fridén – male vocals on “Raise Your Banner”
Jasper Steverlinck – male vocals on “Firelight”
PRE ORDER:
withintemptation.probitymerch.com/products/resist-cd
.
