Astral Experience: Clepsidra

Astral Experience (Originally founded as Astral) is a Spanish Progressive metal act formed in 2015. Clepsidra was released on December 15th 2023, via Art Gates Records.

Progressive metal and Power Metal are quite different subgenres in isolation, yet it’s relatively common for them both to be grouped together. I assume there is a large overlap in fan bases, given the melodic sensibility and clean vocal styles, leading to a raft of Prog/Power festivals etc.

In the case of Astral Experience and their new album Clepsidra, I hear a band that really leans into both progressive metal and power metal influences equally; creating a sound and album that is equally melodic, memorable, and virtuosic. I couldn’t help but listen to the album and just think, this is pure prog/power.

It’s probably clear from an inspection of the track listing, but Astral Experience sing in their native Spanish tongue. Whilst I wouldn’t profess to understand a lot of the lyrics I can hear the passion in the vocal delivery clearly, which is arguably more important. From that perspective, I’m glad they do this in preference to feeling pressure to translate the lyrics to English as so many bands do. Heartfelt Spanish delivery is much better to my ears than when a band stumbles through a process of trying to make the translation, phrasing and emotion work in English to appease potential English-speaking fans

I found this album to be a really enjoyable listen, so if you’re a fan of progressive metal in the vein of Dream Theater, or even Melodic Traditional / Power metal with pristine vocals in the vein of Dream Evil, you should give these guys a listen.

Track Listing
1. Marionetas de cristal
2. Reloj de arena
3. Abismo
4. Mil batallas
5. Hechizo
6. Volver a empezar
7. Despertar
8. Espiral (Ego pt.III)
9. Get Lucky (Daft Punk cover)

Added: January 12th 2024
Reviewer: Chris Reid
Score:
Related Link: More Information
Hits: 308
Language: english

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