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Borealis: Illusions

Melodic/Progressive/Power Metal

4.0/5.0

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AFM Records
Words: Craig Hartranft
Added: 04.10.2022 | Released: 07.10.2022

A long time presence in the Canadian metal underground, Ontario's Borealis returns with their sixth studio album, Illusions. The recording is a second chapter in the concept/story begun with 2018's The Offering. The original story concerned an ancient cult using child sacrifice in hopes of issuing in a new world order. Illusion continues the story from the children's perspective. I can't tell you more about the latter as I did not receive lyrics with my digital promotional material.

Borealis

As you would expect, the album and concept is arranged within Borealis' signature, hard and heavy, progressive power metal. Which consists, in its foundation, of strong riffs, an assertive rhythm section, notable orchestration, blazing guitar solos, and generally melodic and harmonious vocal arrangements (although, in the mix, vocalist Matt Marinelli can seem muted). Adding to the depth and breadth of the arrangements is the contributions of composer and multi-instrumentalist Vikram Shankar, perhaps best known for his work with Redemption. His influence is across the entire album, yet quite expansive within Light Of The Sun, The Phantom Silence, My Fortress, and the softer Burning Tears which feature female vocalist Lynsey Ward. Otherwise, you'll find some rough and tumble, quite speedy, power metal with Believer and intermittently with Ashes To Rain and its chunky riffs. All this to say, Illusions finds Borealis going from strength to strength with their consistent, constant, and creative progressive power metal, made even more lavish and expansive with the orchestral and synth contributions of Redemption's Vik Shankar. Recommended.

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Illusions finds Borealis going from strength to strength with their consistent, constant, and creative progressive power metal, made even more lavish and expansive with the orchestral and synth contributions of Redemption's Vik Shanker. Recommended.

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