Review Summary: This album fucks, loudly and proudly
For the most part, Sonja fits right in with the blend of goth rock and traditional metal that’s picked up traction in recent years courtesy of Unto Others and Spell. The bass and drums provide much of the momentum with relentlessly upbeat drives, the guitars and keyboards put in a mix of flamboyant solos and atmospheric leads, and the vocals deliver their mid-range melodies drenched in reverb. However, Loud Arriver arrives with enough quirks to help the group stand out.
The band shows considerable commitment to the mood at hand. The opening “When the Candle Burns Low…” sets the tone quite effectively with a soft fade-in that gradually builds up to a spry mid-tempo gallop, the closing title track conjuring a similarly theatrical flair though perhaps presented with slightly more urgency behind it. “Pink Fog” also stands out with its steady marching tempo and “Wanting Me Dead” puts in brighter melodies and energetic beats that aren’t afraid to dip into slower territory.
Thankfully the songwriting also injects enough catchiness to keep the tone focused with tightly paced tracks coming together for a concise overall runtime. “Nylon Nights” was a fun single choice with its more muscular chugs and strong hook while “***, Then Die” borders on pop metal ground. As suggested by that title and something like “Moans from the Chapel,” there’s a sexual energy here that’s rarely seen in this genre mix. Imagine something between Cauldron’s sleaze without the male gaze or Savage Master’s BDSM aesthetic with a more sensual framing.
Overall, Loud Arriver lives up to its title quite nicely and does well to establish a distinct place for Sonja in the heavy gothic scene. While the songwriting might not have the in-your-face catchiness of Unto Others, it also doesn’t completely give way to atmospheric meandering ala Lunar Shadow. It strikes both elements with considerable balance with enough room to grow on future efforts, offering plenty of memorable anthems along the way. This album ***s and it ***s loudly and proudly.
