Leprous have never been afraid to carve out their own path. The Norwegian metallers characteristically root themselves in the progressive realms, but even that relatively fluid genre label doesn’t contain the band within its walls. One thing that is constant throughout their career is the desire to embrace evolution and experimentation, and it’s paid off. Catchy hooks, powerful heavy guitars and, of course, Einar Solberg’s distinctive tone and register, are key aspects of their music. While Leprous don’t necessarily always engage with typical prog elements, they play with arrangements, tones and textures, and it’s the anticipation and unexpected nature of what will come next that keeps listeners so intrigued. Melodies Of Atonement carries a significant pivot stylistically as Leprous have thrown open the gates to a new realm of experimentation that is diverse and yet accessible, without rejecting their roots.
Melodies Of Atonement is notably striking in terms of its impact. The album as whole feels heavier; it’s a modern sound, and highly dynamic not only across the track list but throughout the arrangements of each song. The epic opener Silently Walking Alone comprises of synths that manifest an eerie backdrop of anticipation building into the immense chorus. The weight of the heavy instruments, dramatic slower pace and intense vocal line, not only produces an emotive bang, but it also manages to feel raw and intimate. Continuing with the moody electronics, Atonement follows heightening the pace and with it the intensity. The minimalist verse with softer lead vocals, gradually builds before exploding into the full heavy arrangement. Seeing the track’s key hook take centre stage with an intriguing array of instrumental layers building a haunting atmosphere beneath. The chorus vocals showcase Solberg’s signature belts and impressive range.
Leprous’ songwriting revolves around catchy hooks, contrasts and developing returning sections to continually add interest and maintain appeal. Many of the songs on Melodies Of Atonement follow a similar arrangement of beginning more minimalistic and often lighter in terms of layering parts and building into a more intensive and heavier full-scale sound. By varying each track through an array of stylistic influences, adjusting the instrumental focus and playing with tones, the album successfully remains enticing. My Specter brings an extraterrestrial eeriness with the lead synth choice alongside softer vocals, before a stark contrast arises through the sudden hit of heavy guitars that propels the musical experience into another dimension. I Hear The Sirens has a ghostly aspect, with synths slightly more warm in tone and strong bass line.
The latest single to land, Like A Sunken Ship, voyages into waves of groove, rhythmic percussion and synths. The “lalalalalala”s are certain to form an earworm. Leprous take their time teasing with this track, it’s not until halfway through before the epic heavy payoff hits—though it’s definitely worth the wait. Solberg’s fiery harsh makes the track with a brutal burst of aggression. Stylistically, Limbo is an interesting one. Watery synths, groovy, blues-esque parts, and a rock / pop leaning chorus actually works surprisingly well combined and is yet another chorus to find yourself singing along to. A melody played on double bass, is joined with piano and percussion placing jazz influences into Faceless. The lyrical motif “Never go alone / Never the unknown” makes for a haunting outro returning in a choral form.
Heading towards the close of Melodies of Atonement, the final few tracks notably feel a little more uplifting, lighter and reflective. Starlight’s use of cleaner toned guitars introduces a dreamy feel, with percussion and bass providing a grounding edge. The lead vocals primarily remain in the falsetto range enhancing the soaring, airy sound. Vocally, Self-Satisfied Lullaby remains in the higher register with dreamy electronics filling out the space. Sharp drum hits and synth oddities interspersed add points of interest. Leprous conclude with an emotive and compelling display. A dreamlike feel traverses through the song, from Unfree My Soul’s grounded and direct verse sound to the soaring ethereality of the chorus.
For fans of: TesseracT, VOLA, Haken
‘Melodies Of Atonement’ by Leprous is out now on InsideOutMusic.
Words by Holly Royle
