What “A Story Untold,” the newest album by Stockhom-based Ad Meliora presents the listener with is an up-and-coming multi-national progressive metal band still discovering and honing their sound; a style that’s adequately complex with dark influences, is melodic, and puts the emotion-packed vocals of Pablo (no last name given) at the forefront.
The album commences with “A Place” which carries the listener through a barrage of riffs, drum fills, and high soaring vocals all on top of a grandiose atmosphere. Frankly, the song slays, and simultaneously gives the listener a taste of the orchestrated clamor that is to follow. “A Dreamer” epitomizes all that is great about post-rock, and I would go as far as saying the song still may be the band’s crowning achievement here.
A key attribute of Ad Meliora is their ability to engage the listener with a multitude of topics, and in every sense of the word, diversity. “The Dismal Truth” packs tons of energy and is one of the center-pieces of “A Story Untold.” The energy is displayed in every aspect; vocals soar over the raging guitars and thumping rhythm section.
Further adding to the depth of the album is “The Helping Hand”, a well-constructed, well-executed piece featuring a thrilling interplay between the guitar riffs and vocals.
In sum, “A Story Untold” is an outstanding release worth your time whether you’re a fan of melodic progressive metal or not. There are highs; there are lows; there is pain; and most of all there is passion. If there is one single word to describe Ad Meliora’s newest effort, it would be “genuine.” Not only is the band outside of the one-album-wonder galaxy…. they’re in a completely different universe.
