AvatariumHurricanes and Halos

The latest release from Avatarium, Hurricanes and Halos, is a trip down a doomy, psychedelic rock ‘n’ roll lane, in all the best ways possible.

Opening with Into The Fire—Into The Storm, the record immediately kicks off with a bit of energy and the heavy riffs from Marcus Jidell coupled with Jennie-Ann Smith’s sultry, yet powerful vocals create an ambience that instantly transports you into the rock and roll era of the ’80s. The whole album could be a nod to that vintage era of music in fact, and this becomes clearer with each listen as you pick up nods to Deep Purple and Black Sabbath in amongst the groove and fuzz.

If you are looking for an album that makes you want to kick back with some psychedelics and just forget the world exists for a time, then Hurricanes and Halos is the perfect soundtrack.

You can really appreciate the genius of bassist Leif Edling and his songwriting abilities throughout the record. While the LP is not overly long, clocking in at just 44 minutes, there are some epic tracks woven in, and the longest, Medusa Child, also happens to be one of the best. Smith’s vocals are offset by a children’s choir, and the doomy undertone, which are all bundled together with a four minute instrumental ending in which the keys and guitars feature prominently. It’s a mixed bag and an unusual track but that’s what makes it all so appealing.

Following directly on from this is another standout, the heavier The Sky At The Bottom Of The Sea, a punchy song that really show off Smith’s voice and range. Smith’s range and talent is certainly at the forefront of this album and the much slower track When Breath Turns To Air also highlights her talents. It’s a beautifully written, blissful track, with a more lilting style of vocals, during which you can imagine yourself lying in a peaceful place and quietly floating away on the melodies.

If you are looking for an album that makes you want to kick back with some psychedelics and just forget the world exists for a time, then Hurricanes and Halos is the perfect soundtrack.

STANDOUT TRACKS: The Starless Sleep, Medusa Child, A Kiss (From the End of the World)
STICK THIS NEXT TO: Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, Uriah Heep

Hurricanes and Halos is out now through Nuclear Blast.