BLACKSUN – Karma Somnium (2025) *HQ*
Metal related acts from Greece have a special approach to the genre, a classic feeling. BLACKSUN formed in 1993 (!) and since have self-released their art, no compromise. Their new album ”Karma Somnium” features new singer and drummer, both solid musicians contributing a lot to the band’s granite but very melodic sound.
Mixing traditional melodic metal, progressive, and a pinch of symphonic all perfectly performed, executed and with a polished clean production, ”Karma Somnium” is a fresh collection of songs avoiding common places.
Similar to the work of a lot of their Greek colleagues the roots of the music can be found in the U.S. metal scene, enhanced by some typical European trademarks. Some of the riffs and chord progressions remind of bands like early Queensryche or Jacob’s Dream, expanded by a few lead guitar melodies that bear similarity to acts like Iron Maiden or Angel Witch.
While most of the time the music is pretty much straight-forward a few laid-back sections have been added, lending the whole sound a certain melancholic and epic feel. Each song has its signature riffs, making it stand out from the others, with some being hymnal and glorious and others carrying a slower and even slightly dark vibe.
Some additional elements like tempo / rhythm shifts and clever keyboards have been used to give the whole music an extra layer. The songwriting is quite mature and the guys exactly knew where they wanted to go. The harmonies are hooky and the refrains are catchy and memorable for the most part.
Song structures are well defined, following the traditional verse-chorus formula quite often and the overall placement of the single tracks in the context of the album lead to it being easily enjoyable.
Consuming this album in one sitting is enhancing the experience even more.
The rhythm section is playing tight and often technically impressive without getting in the way of the musical flow. Singer Manos Xanthakis has a clear and commanding voice and he can easily stand his ground against better known names. His delivery is often pushing the music up a notch or two without ever going overboard.
The production is nearly flawless which is especially impressive given that this is an independent release. The guitars have a crunchy yet clean and not too fluffy sound, and the drums have a nice punch to them. The mix is clear with each instrument being audible.
”Karma Somnium” is a highly recommended record to each fan of quality melodic metal from the U.S. but also the European school, with a fresh traditional approach.
01 – Karma Somnium
02 – Last Chapter
03 – Mirror
04 – Warrior’s Fate
05 – Tearing Me Apart
06 – You Are Me
07 – Forever Lost
08 – Till The End
09 – Light Remains
Manos Xanthakis – Vocals
Minas Papadopoulos – Guitars
Nick Koulelis – Bass
Vasilis Veliopoulos – Guitars
Thomas Halanoulis – Drums
Angelos Gerogiannis – Keyboards
BUY:
www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DSRC1B3B
