Review Summary: The symphonic metal software update.
Symphonic metal has been kind of stuck in a rut lately. Sure, it has its dedicated fans, but the genre hasn’t really kept up with the times. That’s where Ad Infinitum steps in. They take the classic symphonic metal framework and give it a fresh twist on their album "Abyss." The sound is heavily influenced by modern metalcore and alternative metal, with tracks that are noticeably shorter than typical symphonic metal songs. Shorter runtimes keep the songs from dragging on, which is something that often happens in symphonic metal.
The production is sleek and contemporary, making every instrument shine. For instance, the riff in "Follow Me Down" could easily fit into Architects' "Holy Hell" era, with those lower-tuned guitars adding a punchy, djenty feel. Then, the verses shift to a cinematic feel, incorporating synths into the mix. It’s almost debatable to label this album as "symphonic" metal. A lot of the symphonic parts are swapped out for synths that still create that orchestral feel, so it’s really up to the listener to determine if it fits the label. It feels like another step forward for the genre, and honestly, it’s pretty brilliant.
Vocalist Melissa Bonnie really stands out on this album, with her voice distinguishing her from other bands in the genre. On the track "Surrender," her smooth vocals are particularly impressive. Those little "heh" moments she throws in between her lines add a nice touch of charisma to the performance, making the whole experience even better. Her screams, though used sparingly, are powerful when they do appear. In the opening track, "My Halo," the breakdown features growls that could rival Courtney LaPlante from Spiritbox. It’s like their secret weapon—used just enough to make a strong impact. "Abyss" feels like a modern take on symphonic metal, blending epic European melodies with contemporary pop and metalcore elements, making the choruses really resonate.
