Aspiral represents a new chapter for Epica as they move into their third decade of existence. This decade, it seems, is going to be marked by a more direct, streamlined, and restrained Epica. The orchestrations are still lush and dramatic, but they feel more integrated, augmenting the songs rather than dominating them. The guitars and drums, as well, have relinquished their prominence so that they, too, can more easily supplement the melodies and hooks that are more the focus of Aspiral. There are going to be those fans that miss the overt extreme metal elements and chaotic bombast (I count myself among them), but that doesn?t mean Aspiral isn?t another great Epica release. What Aspiral lacks in sustained energetic aggressive enthusiasm, it makes up for with sheer catchiness and strong songwriting. Aspiral clearly features a band that are still at the top of their creative game.
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