What a nice comeback… The progressive metallers LIFEFORCE from Brazil return with their second album “Apokalipsis” after almost 20 years from the self-titled debut. The fans of the melodic aspect of progressive will find the bands’ new effort quite appealing.
Even though there are many technical parts within the songs that could be characterized as classic progressive metal stemming from the 90s, the album is very melodic. The band avoids the well-known acrobatic change of rhythm met in similar releases, and the songs roll normally and easily for the listener. The style of the album could be described as a more keyboard-oriented version of the first album of POWER OF OMENS. But of course, there are references to DREAM THEATER, IVANHOE, ROYAL HUNT, and in general, the old-school progressive metal scene that gave priority to the creation of atmospheric and mystagogical songs.
The new singer, Julliano Barcellos, offers a great deal of sentiment in the whole try of the band for emotional and up-lifting progressive metal. Good voice, and down-to-earth performance that enhances the simplicity and the immediacy that LIFEFORCE want to deliver via the new album. This is noticeable in all the records’ songs but especially in “Revelations”, “Black Books”, “Broken Promises” and “Burning Star”. Very good tracks – emotional and catchy.
LIFEFORCE returned with a beautiful album full of melodies and subtle progressive metal. Those who miss the late 90s – early 00s era of that sound, will find “Apokalipsis” as a great means of filling those musical needs.
