Better Production Values but Still for Adamant Fans Only - A Review of Sonata Arctica's Acoustic Adventures (Volume Two)

Sonata Arctica's Acoustic Adventures (Volume Two) are from the same sessions as the first volume that was released earlier this year. The Finnish quintet has actually been playing acoustic shows for quite a while now and it was only a matter of time until the band would release some acoustic albums as well. It would have been better to insert a regular studio album between these two acoustic efforts for the sake of diversity but the final results are nonetheless satisfying for fans of the band's more recent material that sounds rather soothing, relaxing and introspective.

The good news is that this second release is even slightly better than its predecessor. The main reason for this increase in quality is a more balanced production without overtly loud keyboard sounds or vocals. This record here flows very well and sounds coherent from start to finish.

Another interesting element is that some of the chosen songs sound very different from their original versions. This is for instance the case for closing ballad ''Victoria's Secret'' that sounds quite playful and quirky here but comes around with a shorter and more concise running time. ''Half a Marathon Way'' almost enters progressive rock territories with its intriguing changes and also clocks in roughly one minute under its original running time.

Some songs really shine in their enchanting acoustic settings. Empowering band anthem ''I Have a Right'' sounds even more empathic in its stripped-down version and opens the record on a high note. The playful ''Black Sheep'' shines in a rhythmic country rock style that is much more distinctive than its original version in my opinion.

Other songs however don't benefit from their acoustic renditions. The most obvious case here is the classic band anthem ''FullMoon'' that sounds so energetic in its original version and simply needs to be played at full volume and be sang along to in concert. The acoustic version however doesn't have the original's liberating power and invites a lot less to sing along. This rendition sounds tame and only qualifies as slightly above average tune that doesn't leave a significant mark. Similar things could be said about ''My Land'' that is even slightly longer than its original version and lacking the energy of the original version. It doesn't clash as much with its original version as the aforementioned song does but certainly can't compete with it either and fails to leave a lasting impression.

At the end of the day, those who have purchased the first volume of these acoustic renditions should also buy this second effort that is even slightly better due to a more balanced production. However, the acoustic versions overall can't compete with the original songs despite a few creative reinterpretations here and there. Those who have been criticizing Sonata Arctica's mellower style in recent years should actually avoid both releases altogether. On the other side, fans of the band's softer side will find much depth on both records and could enjoy listening to these to relax on upcoming could autumn and winter nights.

Final Rating: 72%