NOVERIA - Becoming After

“The Only Way” starts the album off strong with fire, paving the way to an epic full of vibrato, brutal riffs and a bold venture into vulnerability. Becoming After is all about fighting battles and surviving to see the other side, scarred but empowered. Noveria do not fear treading emotional territory, creating an album that is relatable to many listeners. The music is expressed and in turn, felt.

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Francesco Marino is an epic vocalist, full of drama and a strong, sustaining voice. There is power and passion, able to capture those higher key notes with that classic power metal range. “The Viper’s Nest” and “Infinite Horizons” shows that range of Marino on full display. The vocal control never falters, carrying power to each word.

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To match the vocals, guitarwork is expressive and ranged. Francesco Mattei’s riffs are charged and frantic, showcasing technical skills in the melodic and flowing solos throughout the album. “Infinite Horizons” has an extended solo that is explosive from start to finish. The power that shines through in “Radiance” is power metal at its finest.

Paolo Conte is a powerful drummer, bringing thunderous energy to the sound. “Convicted to Rise” is a flurry of beats that brings vigour to the uplifting energy of the song. The pace never slows, relentless but deliberate. Bass can be broody and rich, Andrea Arcangeli works well in rhythm with basslines, some highlights being “Echoes of the Abyss” and “Heavenfall.” Together they form a soundscape that brings much to the tracks.

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Atmosphere is layered with keyboard additions from Paolo Campitelli, “Cold Flames” has this emotive element while “The Viper’s Nest” feels very modern and electronic. It is the little flourishes that complete a song, with guest instruments on the album combining to make a soundscape full of artful passion.

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“Becoming After,” the final track, is a beautiful instrumental that ends the album on a high and hopeful note. It feels like the light at the end of a harrowing tunnel, completing the journey with a satisfying listen.

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Becoming After is a heartfelt production, full of thunder and feeling, a hope and catharsis of sorts.

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SCORE 9/10

Reviewed by GhostinthearmouR