Search - Autumn :: Altitude

I'm A New Fan

Jack | Troy, OH USA | 04/10/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I had heard of Autumn before but their previous album just didn't grab my attention. However this time Autumn streamed their entire new album ALTITUDE on Myspace and after listening to it, I immediately was hooked and ordered the digi-pack from Femme Metal Store (this is recommended to get the two bonus tracks "One Word Reminder" and "Closure"). Anyways the album, while not up to Within Temptation type standards, is a completely solid listen from start to finish. There was not a bad song to be found. The new vocalist doesn't 'let go' quite as much as I wish she would vocally, however her rather subdued voice fits the songs perfectly (this is not really for the headbanging crowd). Also this album is recorded at a slightly lower volume than other cds I have purchased recently, which is slightly bothersome. It's also worth mentioning that there are some rather unique lyrics on this release. If bands like Within Temptation, Lacuna Coil, Lunatica, Era For A Moment, Delight, Evanescence, etc. interest you, then definitely give Autumn a try. My favorite songs are "Altitude", "Synchro-Minds", "Answers Never Questioned", "One Word Reminder", "The Heart Demands", "Paradise Nox", "Cascade (For A Day)" and "Horizon Line"."

Soaring to new heights

ViolettePen | Foxboro, MA | 04/07/2009

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Autumn's new album "Altitude" is a solid mix of metal, alternative rock, and pleasant soundscapes. It's similar in style to the band's previous offering "My New Time." The songs are still bold and catchy, the music groovy yet atmospheric, and the lyrics poetic and thoughtful. However, there is greater variety in song length, complexity, and moods.



The biggest change is in the vocals. Nienke de Most Nienke de Jong left the band in February 2008, which sent fans into a panic. But her replacement, Marjan Welman, has a voice that is warm and mature and suits the music perfectly.



What's great about this album is that it shows Autumn has evolved as a band while maintaining their distinct sound. They have incorporated new elements into their music, making "Altitude" more adventurous in spots and more peaceful in others.



Highlights:



"Skydancer" - Uplifting and confident, with driving melodies and guitars over a slow tempo. Its lyrics convey the emotions evoked by the music.



"Paradise Nox" - A bold opening traack full of twists and turns. Marjan's delivery flows from gentle to emotional with great ease on this track.



"A Minor Dance" - A waltzing experimental ballad, with a lyrical ghost story to match. It's complete with delicate keyboards and a prolonged ending that will take your breath away.



More mellow tracks such as "Answers Never Questioned," "Synchro-Minds," and the unseemingly epic title track that start off subtle and quiet but build in intensity towards the end. These tracks are reminiscent of some of The Gathering's material.





Weak Spots:



"Sulphur Rodents" - The fastest track on the album. It has some menacing down-tuned chords, but Marjan's lack of vocal charisma makes this song bark rather than bite.



Recommended for:



- Anyone who's enjoyed Autumn's previous albums

- Fans of female fronted metal bands such as Evanescece, Lacuna Coil, Within Temptation, The Gathering, Stream of Passion, and Flowing Tears

- Fans of other rock/metal acts such as Ayreon, U2, and Coldplay



Parts of this review were taken from my review of "Altitude" at Sonic Cathedral: http://www.soniccathedral.com/webzine/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=382&Itemid=1."