Sonata ArcticaThe Ninth Hour

While not being a religious record, The Ninth Hour has undeniably got biblical undertones with vocalist/keyboardist Tony Kakko acknowledging he did a little research after the fact.

It is an interesting record, in that the music and accompanying artwork combine to tell a story relating to the balance of power between man, nature and technology. Following on stylistically from Pariah’s Child, The Ninth Hour is a bit of a mixed bag. When it’s good it’s excellent, with songs like opener Closer to an Animal and Rise a Night building beautifully from a calm beginning to all out assault throughout, with the music ebbing and flowing with eclectic grace. 

Kakko’s voice soars majestically over and throughout the record and is the foundation from which Sonata Arctica derive their power.

Fairytale is a nearly seven minute epic, starting with a beautifully tranquil intro that doesn’t feature vocals until a minute and a half into the song. Unfortunately, this building crescendo, while utilised to great effect in places, is also too frequent, thus robbing the impact with sustained usage.
The slower songs are painfully slow which creates somewhat of a conundrum when analysing the overall feel of the album. It is beautifully crafted, with the use of keyboards prominent without being overwhelming.
Kakko’s voice soars majestically over and throughout the record and is the foundation from which Sonata Arctica derive their power but unfortunately this record feels like it isn’t quite sure of where to place itself on the musical spectrum.

Stick this next to: Nightwish, Stratovarius, Hammerfall
Standout tracks: Closer to an Animal, Fairytale, Rise A Night

The Ninth Hour is out now through Nuclear Blast.