Therion: Sitra Ahra

A new Therion album really is a must have for many; I suppose that has something do with the fact that Therion are one of if not the best symphonic metal band around. Sitra Ahra is the latest, and Christofer Johnsson is still of course the mastermind but there have been rather significant changes, with a new lead singer, drummer, guitarist and bass player. The previous line-up was really very good so I was quite surprised, and was also unsure what this new CD would be like in comparison, but there is no mistaking that Therion sound which is still present upon listening to the excellent symphonic title track "Sitra Ahra", filled with enchanting female and male vocals plus a super catchy chorus on this mid paced track. That Therion sound has evolved though and other cultural influences are found on Sitra Ahra.

The new line-up includes former Candlemass vocalist Thomas Vokstrom, who shows he has a wide range of required vocals for Therion's songs. He does bring a change in style from the always impressive Mats Leven, Therion's previous lead singer, like when Therion bring out the dark elements from their earlier times on the track "Din", a heavy and rapid song well suited to Thomas as he utilizes his more sinister vocals. Being classically trained also makes Thomas an ideal choice for such a band.

Listening to a new Therion release for the first time is an exciting experience, and multiple listens are usually required to fully appreciate how much has gone into creating such an album. Sitra Ahra is no exception a long list of contributors both singers and musicians having been assembled for this newest Therion CD. The sounds of multiple instruments and potent choirs are heard once more, metal meets opera, meets classical and lighter music. With the colorful and vibrant sounds of traditional instruments like on the impressive epic that takes many twists and turns "Land Of Canaan" including acoustic guitar, accordion, flute, organ and harmonica. "King Of Edom" is fantastic and a track full of surprises, "2012" is a song that refers to the Maya end of the world theory and has a more familiar Therion feel to it. I really like how the bass playing helps motivate this one.

It's interesting how different Lemuria/Sirius B, Gothic Kabbalah and now Sitra Ahra all are, as not all bands can pull this off successfully but Therion know how to be innovative and are up to the task, and in actuality some writing for Sitra Ahra actually started back when Lemuria/Sirius B were in the works. So this one has been planned for quite some time, so no wonder it's so good. Also, the previous two Therion releases were spread over two CDs, but this time is back to one gripping disc.

Sitra Ahr will delight those who like to be swept up and taken away by an enthralling musical creation, courtesy of a wonderful band called Therion. Sitra Ahra is truly one of the best CDs I have listened to in 2010, and receives a 5 out of 5 from this reviewer.

Track list:
1. Sitra Ahra
2. Kings Of Edom
3. Unguentum Sabbati
4. Land Of Canaan
5. Hellequin
6. 2012
7. Cu Chulain
8. Kali Yoga III
9. The Shells Are Open
10. Din
11. Children Of The Stone - After The Inquisition

Added: October 20th 2010
Reviewer: Scott Jessup
Score:
Related Link: Band Website
Hits: 4429
Language: english

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