Review Summary: After an ‘okay’ debut, Almah returns with a progressive touch to their sound similar to that of Symphony X or even their counterpart, Angra.
To clear up some things – Almah was supposed to be a solo career for Angra’s longtime, second vocalist, Edu Falaschi. Only to be Edu’s official new band some years later after
Fragile Equality was released. Nevertheless, that‘s beside the point, that was just a bit of background knowledge really. However, the reason for
Fragile Equality sounding more diverse and consistent in this release compared to their debut has to deal mainly with the addition of two new guitarists that approach a progressive shred style rather than Almah’s previous guitar player, Emppu Vuorinen (Nightwish). With these additions and changes of musical characteristics, we see
Fragile Equality making Almah a competitor in the international power metal scene, rather than just Brazil.
From the start of the album, “Birds of Prey”, “Beyond Tomorrow”, and “Magic Flame” puts off an electrifying start on the album with the new sound Almah developed over their off-season routine. Even the quality of the production, mixing, musicianship, and the overall vibe improved greatly during their time in between albums. Their improvement also doesn’t span across their typical style of power metal, but it also spreads into their ballads respectively. Songs such as “All I Am” show catchy vocal arrangements, but what caught my attention was the poignant guitar solo that captured the feeling of a melancholic atmosphere. Another notable song is “Invisible Cage”, which includes a Pop-rock/Brazilian folk/power ballad styled song, which may take a few listens to enjoy properly.
In addition, the album started strong, only to slowdown in the middle section with experimental songs and ballads. Nevertheless, once the self-titled starts off,
Fragile Equality resumes the power metal onslaught that was presented from the very start of the album, only to be followed by “Torn” and “Meaningless World” that finishes the album with a strong force that gives high hopes for Almah’s future releases.
Recommended Tracks
Birds of Prey
Beyond Tomorrow
Torn
Meaningless World
Magic Flame
