Imperia - The Last Horizon (2021)

As one of the first impressive singers in the early days of Symphonic/Gothic Metal, Helena Iren Michaelsen has always been one of our favorite singers since her days in Trail of Tears. Unleashing a double album with Imperia, we are treated to over 72 minutes of lush Symphonic Metal with “The Last Horizon”. With tons of different elements ranging from rock to folk, this release has certainly something for everybody.

Opening with the lively, “Dream Away” sets a very epic and engaging vibe that is further developed and enhanced with killer songs like “Starlight”, the Doro-esque “To Valhalla I Ride”, and the explosive “Flower and the Sea”. Featuring dramatic arrangements, heavy riffs, and crafty atmospheric elements we are instantly attracted to dynamic songs like “Blindfolded” and “Only A Dream”.

For the fans of power ballads, “While I am Still Here”, “I Still Remember” and the folky “Dancing”. The second CD seems to have more experimental tracks, mixed in with some bangers like the brilliant “One Day”. While things get more mellow with pieces like “I Send You My Love” and the piano-led “Let Down”. While the first CD is more bombastic, we also enjoyed the diversity and wider variety of ideas presented in the second one.

With “The Last Horizon”, Imperia definitely delivers one of their most ambitious and complete musical experiences to date. Every track is expertly crafted and very enjoyable, making the whole release a very complete and enjoyable experience. If you like Symphonic Metal that is well balanced and highly enjoyable, this is one album that will keep you entertained for quite a while.

Label: Massacre Records

Release: March 26th, 2021

Genre: Symphonic Metal

Country: International