VISIONS OF ATLANTIS – Pirates II Armada (2024)

VISIONS OF ATLANTIS are set to unleash their latest album “Pirates II Armada,” on July 5th via Napalm Records. This new record will hit deeply with fans, especially those who cherish symphonic metal in its purest form.
Symphonic metal has navigated through numerous transformations, making it challenging to pinpoint a band’s true essence in today’s ocean. What sets VISIONS OF ATLANTIS apart is their ability to stay true to the genre’s roots while being themselves. In an era where many bands have drifted from the classic symphonic sound, VOA stands right here, x makes the spot, keeping the spirit of the genre’s golden age alive.
The level of complexity in VISIONS OF ATLANTIS’ music is almost mind-boggling. Rock music on its own can be a challenge to record, but when you add in all the layers and elements they incorporate, it’s a whole different beast. But somehow, they’ve managed to make it all work together so well. Every instrument, every vocal line, every symphonic flourish has its place, thanks to Felix Heldt pristine production and expert Jacob Hansen mix & mastering.

Since French female vocalist Clementine Delauney and Italian singer Michele Guaitoli (Temperance) joined the band in 2013 and 2018 respectively, VISIONS OF ATLANTIS has gained more momentum in the metal scene and for a rather good reason, as their brand of symphonic metal with touches of metal, juxtaposing male and female vocals, charming melodies, and rich orchestral arrangements has a wide appeal among fans of the genre.
And why wouldn’t it? It’s easy on the ears and more often than not makes for a more than enjoyable listening experience.

Since some time ago, VISIONS OF ATLANTIS has fully embraced the pirate theme, and they’re in the middle of shifting to a new era for the band. The lyrics and stories all over the 12 tracks are fun, but what really impress is the musical delivery, powerful, with some beautiful dreamlike soundscapes, gorgeous melodies, and wonderful vocals.
The new CD begins with the soulful opener ‘To Those Who Choose To Fight’. The melancholic intro is accompanied by great vocals and a captivating soundscape. A great start to the album and a memorable transition into the dramatic ‘The Land Of The Free’. From the very first moments, you are reminded of years gone by when pioneering bands such as Nightwish and Within Temptation were first heard with their epic melodies. It is symphonic metal in its purest form: fast and powerful guitar leads, epic drumming and the melodic vocals of Delauney and Guaitoli.

The genre has changed again and again over the years, but VISIONS OF ATLANTIS keep the traditions alive and add their own style. Particularly noteworthy is the orchestral background music, which adds a lot of atmosphere. In ‘Tonight I’m Alive’ we enter uncharted waters: oriental sounds and a choir open the song. Clémentine and Michele sing together and against each other, almost like the stormy sea fighting for the upper hand with the restless wind. The song is fun and drives forward; live it will certainly encourage people to sing along, especially with the creative solo by guitarist Christian Douscha before the bridge. The bridge itself shines with wonderful vocals and mystical oriental sound elements.

A double bass fountain opens the eponymous title track ‘Armada’ and takes the listener into the fascinating world of pirates. The band is darker and heavier than ever before. In an interesting way, here the metal touch is mixed with symphonic parts in an easily accessible sound. The polyphonic choir vocals in the chorus are particularly good.
Of course, the obligatory ballad should not be missing on an album like this. ‘Ashes to the Sea’ is accompanied by theatrical orchestral passages that give the song more depth and atmosphere with various tempo and mood changes. It may not stand out as much as other tracks on the album, but it deserves its place on “Armada”.

‘Hellfire’ starts with a bang – and that is meant literally. Cannon shots can be heard, together with heavy organ sounds they set an intense mood. The tension rises with the intense and rhythmic drumming of Thomas Caser, before the whole thing really becomes “hellfire” with a killer riff and high screaming. The chorus is the best part of the song, with a “sing-along” guarantee that is sure to get people moving at a concert. The “Burn, burn, burn” chant is simple but effective – I can well imagine the fans throwing their hands up in the air and screaming at the band.

The curtain falls with the closer ‘Where the Sky and Ocean Blend’. The epic piece stretches over seven minutes, making it the longest track on the album. VISIONS OF ATLANTIS obviously believe in going out with a loud bang. This massive symphonic piece is a fitting end to this work. At the beginning of the song, a mysterious melody plays in the background – is it raindrops falling on the ship on a calm night, or the harsh creaking of the steering wheel? It’s hard to make out, but all the more fascinating.
But before the sound can reveal itself, Thomas starts his drum fireworks and whips the melody forward. This is also where I hear Herbert Glos’ booming bassline most clearly. Clémentine’s vocal performance grabs you from minute one; she is good at the beginning of the album, but terrific at the end.
Even if you’re not a big fan of the symphonic metal genre, you have to acknowledge the vocal performances this woman can deliver. Michele’s vocal part provides a contrast: powerful and strong, the backing vocals in particular make it almost seem as if a ghostly pirate crew is echoing his words. ‘Where the Sky and Ocean Blend’ is a clear recommendation for listening.

With “Pirates II Armada”, VISIONS OF ATLANTIS they best work to date. They may not have reinvented the genre, but they have managed to continue the same passion and emotion of original, early classic sympho metal sound.
Highly Recommended

01 – To Those Who Choose To Fight
02 – The Land Of The Free
03 – Monsters
04 – Tonight I’m Alive
05 – Armada
06 – The Dead Of The Sea
07 – Ashes To The Sea
08 – Hellfire
09 – Collide
10 – Magic Of The Night
11 – Underwater
12 – Where The Sky And Ocean Blend

Clémentine Delauney – Vocals
Michele Guaitoli – Vocals
Christian Douscha – Guitars
Herbert Glos – Bass
Thomas Caser – Drums

Pre order:
www.amazon.com/PIRATES-II-ARMADA-Visions-Atlantis/dp/B0CYTC7NXT/