A perfect collision of Metal and Classical Music!
Swedish symphonic metal legends Therion have returned to deliver another masterpiece – fulfilling the Leviathan trilogy. With more than 35 years under their belts, the band around mastermind Christofer Johnsson was one of the first to combine metal with symphonic and orchestral elements back in the 90s, and are considered one of the most style-defining founders of symphonic metal today. Now, the band continues their legacy by releasing the third installment of the Leviathan trilogy, Leviathan III, out December 15, 2023 via Napalm Records. The band continues with their versatile and style-combining musical journey, which is also formed by the fundamental line of its predecessors Leviathan and Leviathan II.
The album sets off with the powerful “Ninkigal”, catapulting the listener directly into the dramatic universe of Therion with skillfully crafted compositions and operatic female vocals by Lori Lewis, alternating with grim growling and pleasing melodies. It’s followed by “Ruler of Tamag”, enchanting with a gentle acoustic guitar intro and lingering female vocals that open up to a fairytale-like scenario of old times. This then bursts into a heavy track with gloomy parts, building up to a fascinating score-like symphony. Therion once more draw charm from the courage to mix styles ranging from gothic parts to melodic death metal and neo-classical elements to power metal in a complex and versatile way, thus challenging their listeners as witnessed on “Twilight of the Gods”. The track delivers the finest of epic and symphonic metal, finding a harmonious and balanced blend between guitars, choir and orchestra. The songs are quickly engaging and skillfully employ catchy melodies, as witnessed on uplifting tracks like “An Unsung Lament” and “Baccanale”. Advancing melodies are combined with rock elements, captivating lyrics and choir parts, while lively “Maleficium” is structured around a duet between Thomas Vikström and Lori Lewis. Stomping “Ayahuasca” is a true musical journey featuring a male choir and psychedelic elements, while speedy “Nummo” offers splendid hard guitar explosions and the finest classic vocals and choirs.
Overall, the compositions lean towards the magnificent and theatrical, offering a high variety of musical styles while deftly blurring the boundaries of metal and classical music. With their newest opus, Leviathan III, mastermind Christofer Johnsson proves his incredible talent once more, and that Therion have perfected their very own combination of versatile styles – resulting in the creation of a symphonic league of their own.
Therion are: Christofer Johnsson – guitars and keyboards / Sami Karppinen – drums / Nalle “Grizzly” Påhlsson – bass / Thomas Vikström – lead vocals / Christian Vidal – guitar / Lori Lewis – vocals
