• Unapologetic pop metal with an interesting concept - A review of Metalite's A Virtual World

    Metalite - A Virtual World (2021)

    Swedish melodic power metal quintet Metalite is one of the most interesting new genre bands to be around. On its third studio album A Virtual World, the three men and two women combine catchy, danceable and melodic passages with atmospheric, dynamic and playful sections that bring an interesting science-fiction conceptual story to life.

    This record convinces on several levels. The immersive narrative passages, atmospheric synthesizers and cinematic sound effects are perfectly interwoven into the dynamic power metal style to give the band and the record their own identity. The melodic guitar work is simple but efficient which is a refreshing approach in times when many power metal bands try to aim for more ambitious, complex and genre-breaking results. The rhythm section with bass guitar, drums and percussion is an essential element that distinguishes this band from pop and rock groups as it provides the necessary energy and speed to make the group stand out. The energetic, melodic and memorable vocals by Erica Ohlsson sound technically appealing, refreshingly timeless and melodically youthful.

    The record starts promisingly with the energetic, harmonious and memorable title track that gets to the point in four entertaining minutes without any lengths. The uplifting up-tempo anthem ''Cloud Connected'' would make for an excellent single with the potential for extended radio play that easily outclasses the In Flames song of the same title. The band successfully meanders between epic tracks like the playful ''Beyond the Horizon'' that has much replay value, catchy tunes with unapologetic synthesizer pop influences like the joyful ''We're Like the Fire'' and more conceptual tunes such as concise closer ''Synchronized'' that fluidly connects back to the strong opener. The production blends in perfectly as the record sounds melodic without ever being too artificial, polished or smooth. This release is crowned by a colourful artwork and interesting booklet that represent the lyrical concept in particular and the refreshing band spirit in general very well.

    Sweden has always had numerous excellent pop bands as well as influential metal groups. Metalite can be seen as a successful hybrid these two genres. Kawaii metal enthusiasts should also appreciate this release in particular. Purists might claim that the album sounds too catchy, fluffy and melodic and should simply ignore this release and stick to the genre classics of old date and their uninspiring formulaic copycats. Those who appreciate both pop and metal music and people who prefer melodic metal music or energetic pop music should however give these overlooked promising youngster a chance as A Virtual World walks off the beaten path and represents a perfect starting point to discovering this quirky quintet.

    Final rating: 80%

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