Symphonic metal has a diversity even within the genre. Visions of Atlantis have been one of the powerhouses of this genre, and have continued to evolve within themselves. Pirates II-Armada is one of their heaviest albums yet, full of melodic shifts and mood changes. It is my favorite of theirs so far, and by far. Clementine Delauney and Michele Guaitoli’s vocals together continue to be a perfect combination. When you add the musical soundscapes and the theatrics, they really give you a run for your money.
Visions of Atlantis began in 2000 in Styria. Long standing member, Thomas Case (drums), has brought members in and out along the years, but has comfortably settled with: Clementine (vocals) in 2013, Christian Douscha (guitars) and Herbert Glow (bass) both in 2017, and last, but far from least, Michele (vocals), in 2018. They last two albums have the title Pirates in them, although they are separate adventures with maybe an easter egg or two here and there. “Hellfire” has some heavy riffs along with sinister synth sounds. This song has some fun chant worthy, “Burn, Burn Burn”, that will be sure to be a crowd favorite if played live. “Underwater” switches to a more emotional ambiance with a beautiful piano melody. There is a steady drumming that plays in about the middle of the song that picks up the vibration.
Pirates II – Armada is a fantastic journey of an album that must be listened to fully in one sitting.
Clementine was kind enough to sit down with Metal Nation again and discuss this release. (If you are viewing from your phone, please scroll to the bottom of the page and click on “View Desktop Version”, to gain video and interview access.