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Writer's pictureHeavy Hearted

Soen "Memorial" Album Review

Updated: Jul 26


Soen's sixth full-length studio album "Memorial" (2023)

Swedish progressive metal band Soen is back with their sixth full-length record, "Memorial," following their 2021 release, "Imperial." Despite some criticism for their slight stylistic shift, "Imperial" performed well on the charts, highlighting Soen's potential to break into the mainstream. The two-year gap between these albums showcases Soen's drive and evolution.


Soen initially formed in 2004, but it wasn't until 2010, after Martin Lopez left Opeth, that the band was officially announced. With legends like Martin Lopez and Steve Di Giorgio, Soen aimed to bring a fresh sound to the progressive metal scene. Their debut album "Cognitive" in 2012 drew heavy comparisons to Tool, and while this influence was undeniable, Soen quickly forged their own path. Their 2014 album "Tellurian" is widely regarded as one of the best progressive efforts of the 2010s. This was followed by the well-received "Lykaia" in 2017 and the epic "Lotus" in 2019, solidifying Soen's place in the prog-metal community.


However, with the release of "Imperial" in 2021, fans noticed a shift towards a more aggressive and less progressive sound. This change was not a disappointment but rather a darker, more melodic evolution. "Memorial" continues in this vein.


"Memorial" is not the band's shortest record—it's one minute longer than "Imperial"—but it features Soen's shortest compositions to date, with only one track exceeding the five-minute mark. This album is also Soen's most accessible and pop-oriented release. In an era where heavy riffs dominate the mainstream, Soen leverages this trend with their unique style. "Memorial" finalizes their entry into mainstream territory with melodic riffing and aggressive tunes like "Violence" and the title track. It also features slow, emotional ballads like "Hallowed (Elisa)" and catchy hooks in songs like "Unbreakable" and "Fortress."





While I generally enjoyed and have been listening to this record for some time, I have to admit that it has some weaker points, which is unusual for a Soen album. Tracks like the opener "Sincere" and the powerful "Icon" are highlights, but songs like "Incendiary" and "Tragedian" feel a bit uninspired. The closer "Vital," unfortunately, didn't capture my attention, even with Joel Ekelöf's brilliant vocals and the band's incredible musical performances. Some tracks feel like they could have been left out.


Being a progressive band isn't just about writing pieces in unusual time signatures or creating 20-minute compositions like Dream Theater. An album can be progressive by not repeating itself, telling a story, and constantly evolving. "Memorial" isn't a progressive record in this sense. It's a collection of emotionally crafted, aggressive groove metal songs with a poppier edge aimed at the mainstream. It has great headbanger tunes like "Sincere," "Memorial," and "Icon," and tracks that remind us why we enjoyed "Imperial," like "Unbreakable" and "Violence." However, it doesn't quite reach the legacy established by albums like "Tellurian" and "Lotus."


While "Memorial" is by no means a bad record, it leaves me wondering if this is a downturn for Soen. Only time will tell. Listening to this album will showcase the band's talent and brilliance, but it also leaves you wanting more, feeling like something is missing. While I'm somewhat satisfied with "Memorial," I hope their next effort will recapture the glory of their earlier days.


HIGHLIGHTS:
  • Sincere

  • Violence

  • Fortress

  • Memorial

  • Icon




RATING: 6.5/10

 


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