VEONITY – “The Final Element” album review

Influences from Hammerfall are evident once again, something the band has never hidden in their previous releases. Naturally, there are also elements drawn from other bands like Bloodbound, as well as from the German metal scene, including Helloween and Gamma Ray, and even from Italy. These influences make the album both captivating and accessible. With the addition of vocalist Isak Stenvall, whose interpretive approach and vocal stylings bear resemblance to Cans (Hammerfall), there’s an initial sense of “hypothetical” familiarity. However, Stenvall’s vocal capabilities—both tonally and in performance—allow the listener to embrace the melodic essence of the album fully. The result is remarkable.

Thematically, the album remains rooted in epic storytelling, delving into mythology, fantasy, and inner strength. Connecting it to the previous album, the supposed “hero” seeks or harnesses the powers of nature—fire, water, earth, and air—to overcome obstacles, ultimately discovering the “fifth element” (a profound, mysterious force or Aether, as conceptualized in ancient Greek philosophy). This element is believed to fill the universe beyond the earthly sphere, linking to divine and transcendent forces. Judging by the lyrics of the title track “The Fifth Element,” the hero ultimately sacrifices himself for a greater purpose.

Sample Lyrics from “The Fifth Element”:
“I had to find the Fifth Element,
The air I breathed and the fire I’ve bent
Over earth and water my soul has been sent,
The Power of The Fifth Element
My sacrifice will fulfill my destiny
I will carry the weight of the world
For eternity and far beyond.”

Compositionally, the album is outstanding, holding the listener’s attention throughout. From the opening track “Premonition”, which unfolds as an operatic, epic manifesto, to the aggressive guitars and fast tempo of “Chains of Tyranny”, the album sets a powerful tone from the start. Slower tracks like “Riders of the Revolution” maintain a classic power metal vibe with a dramatic and revolutionary mood, while “Heart of a Warrior” is triumphant and emotionally charged. Meanwhile, “King of Dreamland” incorporates symphonic and highly melodic elements.

The symphonic aspect is woven subtly into the album, often as a backdrop to the vocals, enhancing the epic and cinematic atmosphere. The high-tempo guitar and bass work, executed with precision, occasionally showcase moments of Italian neoclassical flair, supported by the solid and expertly delivered drumming of Joel Kollberg . Additionally, small progressive touches are evident in the final track, “The Fifth Element.”

Overall, the composition aligns seamlessly with the album’s thematic focus, enriching the narrative and drawing the listener into this world of spiritual exploration and introspection. It’s a journey of discovery, both external and internal.

Rating: 8/10
George Pappas