ANTECHAOS: Dystopies (HARD ROCK): review / opinion to read on Music Waves

Barely two years after the acclaimed “Apocalypse”, Antechaos return with “Dystopies”, an even darker, more introspective album with a highly polished cover. Where their first opus was in a direct, hard-hitting vein, “Dystopies” invites listeners to reflect more deeply on the world around them. The band boldly explores contemporary and universal themes, through a narrative that goes beyond classic comparisons with French hard rock icons such as Sortilège or Satan Jokers.

What really sets “Dystopies” apart is the ability to weave tales where the imaginary blends with reality, all highlighted by compositions that are more accomplished and complex than they appear. Laurent Fabisz's vocals, in particular, have taken a quantum leap forward. His more nuanced, emotionally-charged delivery lends unprecedented depth to the lyrics, which dare to venture into territory as yet unexplored by the band (the borderline growl of 'In Vivo'). It's no longer just about catchy riffs (the talented Nico Pellissier) and powerful choruses ('Renaissance'): there's now an almost theatrical dimension emerging, carried along by an immersive narrative (opening track 'Memento Mori').

Musically, Antechaos further refines its identity with tracks like 'Mission Sirius' and 'Le Siècle des Lumières', which manage to capture that delicate balance between raw power and chiseled melody. Dark, hard-hitting riffs serve as the back for lyrics that denounce false prophets and the hypocrisy of virtues displayed in a drifting society. The band demonstrate their mastery of the art of linking topical themes to a powerful musical universe, without ever losing that raw essence which is their strength, and which translates into a very good musical and rhythmic approach (the superb electric and acoustic segue of 'Métarvers' in particular, the callback to Dream Theater in 'Rédemption' recalling 'The Astonishing').

With “Dystopies”, Antechaos doesn't just follow in the footsteps of French hard rock, it shapes a new path in the manner of Malemort or Jirfyia. This second album, perhaps a little less surprising than the previous one, imposes a unique narrative style and shows an artistic maturity that promises much for the future. Darker, more introspective, “Dystopies” marks an important stage in the band's evolution, and brilliantly ventures into musical territories as dense as they are captivating. - Official website

ANTECHAOS

DYSTOPIES

AUTRE LABEL

HARD ROCK