After a three-year wait since their critically acclaimed album “Witness”, the Danish-Swedish progressive metal band VOLA returns with their highly anticipated fourth studio release, “Friend of a Phantom”. The time spent touring and refining their craft is evident, as the band delivers a captivating blend of heavy riffs, ethereal melodies, and intricate electronic textures that push the boundaries of their genre.
The album launches with the electrifying “Cannibal”, featuring a powerful guest appearance by Anders Fridén of In Flames. The fusion of Fridén’s ferocious vocals with Asger Mygind’s soaring melodies creates a dynamic and intense opener that immediately draws the listener into VOLA’s evolving soundscape.
Following the explosive start, “Break My Lying Tongue” showcases the band’s adeptness at intertwining stuttering synth patterns with progressive metal rhythms. Martin Werner’s innovative keyboard work shines here, adding layers of complexity to the track without sacrificing accessibility.
“We Will Not Disband” stands out as an anthem of resilience. Beginning with a gentle guitar introduction, the song gradually builds into a crescendo of emotion and sound, highlighting Asger Mygind’s emotive vocals and the cohesive synergy of the band. It’s a testament to their ability to balance intimacy with grandiosity.
The ethereal “Glass Mannequin” provides a moment of introspection. The minimalist arrangement allows the haunting melodies and atmospheric elements to take center stage, demonstrating VOLA’s versatility and willingness to explore softer sonic territories.
With “Bleed Out”, the band delves into heavier realms. The track combines industrial influences with aggressive guitar work, all anchored by Nicolai Mogensen’s robust bass lines. It’s a visceral experience that contrasts sharply yet harmoniously with the preceding tracks.
“Paper Wolf” reintroduces electronic elements, merging them seamlessly with complex time signatures and catchy hooks. The song is a masterclass in balancing progressive intricacy with memorable melodies, showcasing VOLA’s knack for crafting songs that are both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging.
The reflective “I Don’t Know How We Got Here” slows the pace, offering poignant lyrics over a backdrop of atmospheric synths and gentle rhythms. It’s a contemplative piece that delves into themes of uncertainty and introspection, resonating deeply with the listener.
As the album nears its conclusion, “Hollow Kid” brings back the intensity with a punishing riff initially conceived by Mogensen as a blend of Metallica’s groove and Meshuggah’s polyrhythms. The result is a complex yet cohesive track that exemplifies the band’s innovative spirit.
Closing with the haunting “Tray”, VOLA crafts an atmospheric finale filled with ticking clocks and layered synths. Adam Janzi’s precise drumming provides a steady foundation as the song builds to an enigmatic close, leaving the listener in a state of contemplative reflection.
Overall, “Friend of a Phantom” is a compelling journey through sound and emotion. VOLA has not only maintained the high standards set by their previous work but has expanded their musical horizons, delivering an album that is both cohesive and daringly explorative.
Favorite tracks include “Cannibal”, “We Will Not Disband”, and “Hollow Kid”. This album is a remarkable achievement that showcases VOLA’s growth and solidifies their place at the forefront of progressive metal.
I rated the album 9/10 based on its exceptional blend of heavy and atmospheric elements, innovative songwriting, and the band’s growth since their last release. VOLA has successfully incorporated new influences while staying true to their core sound, creating a cohesive and engaging album. The collaborations and standout tracks elevate the album’s quality.
Tracklist
1. Cannibal (feat Anders Fridén of In Flames)
2. Break My Lying Tongue
3. We Will Not Disband
4. Glass Mannequin
5. Bleed Out
6. Paper Wolf
7. I Don’t Know How We Got Here
8. Hollow Kid
9. Tray
Tour Dates:
Tickets available HERE
01.11 – Århus, Denmark @ Voxhall
02.11 – Gothenburg, Sweden @ Pustervik
03.11 – Oslo, Norway @ Vulkan Arena
05.11 – Tampere, Finland @ Pakkahuone
06.11 – Helsinki, Finland @ Vanha Ylioppilastalo
08.11 – Stockholm, Sweden @ Fryshuset Klubben
10.11 – Berlin, Germany @ Columbia Theater
11.11 – Krakow, Poland @ Hype Park
13.11 – Prague, Czech Republic @ MeetFactory
14.11 – Vienna, Austria @ Flex
15.11 – Munich, Germany @ Backstage Halle
16.11 – Zurich, Switzerland @ Komplex
17.11 – Milan, Italy @ Live Club
19.11 – Cologne, Germany @ Kantine
21.11 – Paris, France @ Petit Bain LOW TICKETS
22.11 – London, England @ Heaven
23.11 – Nottingham, England @ Rescue Rooms
24.11 – Glasgow, Scotland @ G2 LOW TICKETS
25.11 – Manchester, England @ Club Academy
26.11 – Bristol, England @ SWX
27.11 – Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg @ Rockhal
28.11 – Eindhoven, Netherlands @ Effenaar LOW TICKETS
29.11 – Hamburg, Germany @ Markthalle
30.11 – København, Denmark @ Store Vega
VOLA online:
https://www.volaband.com/
https://www.facebook.com/volaband
https://www.instagram.com/volaband
https://twitter.com/volaband
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc8IgcZVQWdhVuQuH9R9BEw
https://www.tiktok.com/@volaband
