The latest album from the symphonic metal band Xandria, “The Wonders Still Awaiting”, is highly anticipated. The new release is a follow-up to the 2017 “Theater of Dimensions”, and it introduces the new band’s lineup: Ambre Vourvahis on vocals, Rob Klawonn on guitars, Dimitrio Gatsios on drums and Tim Schwarz on bass. Of course, the band’s driving force is guitarist, keyboardist, and songwriter Marco Heubaum. Apart from the 40-piece Bulgarian National Radio Children’s Choir, the album features guest appearances from Ally Storch (Subway To Sally) on violin & cello, Johannes Schiefner on Uillean pipes, McAlbi on Low whistle and Ralf Scheepers (Primal Fear) on vocals on “You Will Never Be Our God”. The renowned musician & producer Lukas Knoebl (Illuminata) was in charge of all orchestral arrangements. The album was mixed and mastered by the famed Jacob Hansen (Avantasia, Arch Enemy, Delain, Dynazty, Evergrey etc.). The production is full, clear on the whole. Each element is given the space it deserves and the overall sound is well-balanced.
Xandria delivers an album that is both heavy and melodic. The high-energy, powerful riffs are balanced with atmospheric and melodic elements, creating an intense and emotional experience. The orchestral elements, combined with the operatic vocals, make the overall atmosphere even more grandiose. Xandria’s ability to blend metal music with orchestral arrangements is simply amazing.
The homonymous track, “The Wonders Still Awaiting”, is a perfect example of modern symphonic metal. Ambre Vourvahis is a hell of a singer… I’m curious how they found her, cuz she’s absolute gold! She has the appearance as well as the voice! She reminded me of Sharon den Adel (Within Temptation) at moments, which is only a compliment. Other highlights include: “Two Worlds”, “Reborn”, “You Will Never Be Our God”, “Ghosts”, “Your Stories I’ll Remember”, “My Curse is My Redemption”, “Paradise”, “Scars”, “Mirror of Time”, and “Astèria” (with the Greek lyrics written by Ambre).
All things considered, “The Wonders quieten Awaiting” is an excellent album that showcases the band’s wide range of influences and great songwriting. The metal instrumentation and the symphonic arrangements create a truly exceptional sound, while Ambre’s breathtaking vocals add a feeling of depth to the music. This is an album that needs to be listened over and over, and it will certainly become an instant favorite among symphonic metal fans. “The Wonders Still Awaiting” might very well take you on a journey through the wonders of symphonic metal.
