THERION Leviathan | Weekly Heavy Metal Album Review

 

Released by Nuclear BlastRecords on January 22nd, 2021

Quick Background

Therion is a Swedish symphonic metal band founded by Christofer Johnsson in 1987. Its name was inspired by the Celtic Frost album To Mega Therion. "To Mega Therion" is Greek for "The Great Beast". Originally a death metal band, Therion adjusted its musical style by adding orchestral elements, including choirs, classical musicians, and even a full orchestra at their concert performances. As a result, they are considered pioneers of the symphonic metal genre. 1996's Theli is their masterpiece and one of my favorite albums of all times. But its 1998's Vovin their most commercially successful album. 

Leviathan

Leviathan is the 17th album from the Sweden's symphonic metal pioneers. Named after a giant sea monster from Judeo-Christian myth that has roots in Babylonic lore, Leviathan follows up the massive triple concept album and rock opera Beloved Antichrist (2018). Leviathan is a direct reaction to the complexity of the last few albums. It's a simple, straightforward album, 11 relatively short songs in just 45 minutes. Band leader and mastermind Christofer says "it is the first album that we have deliberately packed with Therion hit songs." The album doesn't bring anything really new, it rather brings us back to their own sound from the most popular songs from their late 90's albums. It's the truly definition of fan service, but I must say it does work. I mean, the songs are catchy, crunchy, full of amazing vocal performances from both male and female singers. Thomas Vikström is the main singer being present in 8 of the 11 tracks. From the get go, you can hear his powerful voice during the upbeat groovy album opener. "The Leaf on the Oak of Far" is power metal-ish, symphonic and a very nice start. Taida Nazraić is Serbian guest singer that brings a Nightwish/Epica kind of vibe to three songs "Tuonela" , "Die Wellen der Zeit" and "Ten Courts of Diyu". "Tuonela" in particular is one of the best songs of the album, Thomas and Taida not only make a nice duo but we also have ex-Nightwish Marco Hietala laying down some very cool vocal lines for the chorus. We also hear Taida on "Die Wellen der Zeit" which is what we could call a symphonic ballad. Finally she also sings on the closer "Ten Courts of Diyu". One of the longest songs on the album with almost 6 minutes is another song that reminds me of Nightwish/Epica. It's a mellow way to close the album. In the title track we hear a call back to the Crowning of Atlantis album. It's a mid paced song with no male singers and very symphonic. The choir dominates and Lori delivers her soprano vocals on top of it. "Nocturnal Light" follows the same lines but with more trading vocals. 

But we also get plenty of aggressive and bombastic songs. "Eye of Algol" is another powerful, high speed and groovy song. Probably my second favorite on the album. "Great Marquis of Hell" is the shortest song on the album. Here Thomas takes again the center stage and deliver a powerful and melodic power metal anthem. We hear some influences from Secret Of The Runes in the high tempo "Aži Dahāka". And on track number 9 "Psalm of Retribution" we are blessed with the contribution of the great Mats Levén who of course worked with the band several times in the best (live and studio). It's another cool song with lots of trading vocals and some ups and downs. In terms of diversity, the song "El Primer Sol" brings some interesting lyrics in Spanish sang very powerfully by Thomas. 

Christian Vidal does a good job with the lead guitars. Not a guitar album, but when needed he is there to deliver it effectively. And the production is clear and modern supporting the bombastic nature of the band's sound. Thomas Ewerhard who worked with some of my favorite bands and album covers from Amon Amarth and Avantasia to Kreator and Vanden Plas blessed us with another fantastic mythic album art.

The Picky Guy

If you are Therion fan since Theli, you can't really complain about Leviathan. The only obvious criticism is the fact they are copying themselves. But even that is unfair as those are well written and have character. I personally do prefer the more powerful bombastic songs instead of ballads and mid tempo songs. But that's just me. Not a real issue.

Wrap Up Opinion 

Therion revisits their roots with Leviathan. A straightforward Therion album full of potential new fan favorites. While not bringing new ideas, it's a powerful, bombastic collection of songs with a good level of variability and dynamism. Several guest singers, tempo changes, lyrics in different languages, all those choices make the album very interesting and each song has its own character. I'm giving it 82/100 a very good album for long time fans. For those who never got into this band, Leviathan won't change your mind. 

SCORE: 82/100

Genre: Symphonic Metal

Released by Nuclear Blast Records on January 22nd, 2021

Rating System

99 - 100 Perfect
94 - 98 Excellent
87 - 93 Great
82 - 86 Very Good
77 - 81 Good
66 - 76 Mixed
58 - 65 Bad

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