Mehida: The Eminent Storm

Mehida are a metal band from Sweden/Finland blending neo-classical, progressive, power and symphonic styles all wrapped with a distinctive European flavour. The band features vocalist Thomas Vikström (ex-Candlemass, Therion) and keyboardist Mikko Harkin (ex-Kotipelto and Sonata Arctica) as well as Jani Stefanovic (guitars), Markus Niemispelto (drums), Olli Tanttu (guitars) and Toni Mäki-Leppilampi (bass). The Eminent Storm is the band's second release, their first entitled Blood and Water came out in 2007.

This is bombastic, heavily orchestrated metal that should appeal to fans of Sonata Arctica and related bands. Running through the album is a thread of darkness, almost brooding in nature, as the band takes on an edgier sound. Many of these songs feature softer more ambient sections with lush keyboard laden soundscapes alongside heavier guitar riffs and powerful drum work. The vocals of Vikström are very good as he proves to be a versatile singer. He has great range featuring high reaching falsetto screams, deep raspy bits and melodic clean vocals that make these songs quite interesting to listen to. At times his high falsetto reminded me of Uriah Heep. Choirs are also used effectively which adds to the bombastic nature of the music.

Despite the band's edgier, moodier sound, the lyrics are very spiritual in nature although I would not necessarily say they are preachy and overbearing. The band is able to explore religious themes from a darker angle which is a good match for Mehida's brand of atmospheric metal. I did not have a problem with the subject matter but that is something each listener will have to decide for themselves. Highlights include the catchy "Where Could I Flee" with its metallic guitar riffs and pretty piano melody and the moody atmospheric metal of "Urban Scream" where edgier guitar work, strong lead and background vocals and a bed of keyboards serve to heighten the song's dramatic effect. The album ends with "Celestial Tears", another slice of moody metal with nice keyboards and strong vocals by Vikström and guest vocalists Riina A. and Rita H.

If you dig well executed atmospheric metal with a strong European flavour and like lyrics with a positive message you should check out the samples. The Eminent Storm may be for you.

Track Listing:
1. Wrath Of Flesh Fellowship
2. Masquerade
3. Until The Day Breaks
4. Land Of Oblivion
5. Dream Giver
6. Draw Near To My Soul
7. Abandoned
8. A Block Of Wood
9. Where Could I Flee
10. Urban Scream
11. Celestial Tears

Added: April 25th 2010
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Band's Official Site
Hits: 2670
Language: english

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