Rating: 8.5 / 10 Stars
CHANTAL is: Chantal (vocals/piano), Christian Burgess (drums), Jo Ellis (guitar), Poly Forge Media (orchestration)
REVIEW – Scheduled for release on February 22nd, ‘Eye of the Storm’ marks CHANTAL’s second album, following her 2018 debut Scars. With this sophomore effort, she dives deeper into the realms of symphonic metal, blending her classically trained piano skills with orchestral grandeur and powerful metal riffs. The result is an album that expands on the themes and emotions of her previous work, offering a more polished and emotionally resonant experience.
‘Eye of the Storm’ opens with “Phoenix Rising,” a dynamic start that sets the tone for the entire record. Pounding drums, soaring guitars, and CHANTAL‘s emotional vocals bring a feeling of rising strength. “Dream Spell” follows with a catchy melody that lingers long after the track ends. “Thunder” delivers on its name, with powerful, emotional symphonic metal elements and anthemic vocals. The first half of the album continues its cinematic journey with “Blind Faith,” a deeply emotional piece where the listener is invited to close their eyes and drift into their dreams.
In the middle section, “Keepers of Anarchy” brings powerful, chant-driven rhythms, while “Evil Stains” offers a darker, more introspective experience. “Darkness Stares” stands out with its slow build and intense emotional pull, sending shivers down the spine as the music grows. “I Forgive You” shifts the tone to a reflective, softer side of the album, showcasing CHANTAL‘s ability to evoke deep emotional resonance through both lyrics and vocals.
As ‘Eye of the Storm’ progresses, the standout tracks continue with “Black Rose,” where soft piano and soaring vocals create a hauntingly beautiful melody. “Crystal Ball” follows, balancing the heavy riffs and pounding rhythms with a symphonic classical overtone. The title track “Eye of the Storm” exemplifies the band’s musicianship, with its thundering drums, crunchy riffs, and CHANTAL‘s powerful vocal performance. The album concludes with “Breathe Deep,” a track that pulls the listener into deep introspection, and “We Are One,” a rallying call for unity that is sure to have live crowds clapping and singing along.
‘Eye of the Storm’ showcases CHANTAL‘s remarkable ability to blend symphonic metal with emotional storytelling, offering a diverse and engaging listening experience. From anthemic power to moments of quiet reflection, the album covers a wide emotional range and proves that CHANTAL is one to watch in the symphonic metal scene.
For more information on CHANTAL, visit:
www.ChantalsMusic.com
www.Facebook.com/ChantalsMusic
www.Twitter.com/ChantalsMusic
www.Instagram.com/ChantalsMusic
www.YouTube.com/@ChantalsMusic
www.Spotify.com/Artist/Chantal