Gauntlet News

End Of Abyss Unleashes Their Epic Debut: 'Escape To A New Empire'

By Jason •
Finnish progressive metal rises from the depths with a cinematic saga that demands your attention.

The metal world just got a jolt of adrenaline as Finnish progressive metal warriors, End Of Abyss, unveil their long-awaited debut album, 'Escape To A New Empire,' today, October 23, via Inverse Records. This isn't just another record; it's an audacious fusion of progressive metal, symphonic orchestration, and storytelling that transports listeners to a realm where grand emotions clash with powerful melodies.

Lead guitarist Alpo Pöytäkangas succinctly captures the essence of their work: “The music speaks for itself. One person swipes left, another finds a lifelong friend.” It’s a testament to the album’s ability to resonate on multiple levels, transcending mere entertainment to engage the listener's soul.

At the helm of this ambitious project is composer and producer Petrus Syvänperä, who has meticulously crafted this sonic odyssey since the days before their first demo in 2010. What began as a solo endeavor has evolved into a full-fledged band, enlisting seasoned Finnish musicians to breathe life into this visionary concept album.

'Escape To A New Empire' transports listeners into a medieval-inspired fantasy universe where dreams are weapons and the protagonist stands against the shadows lurking within society itself. It’s an exploration of escapism and the intricacies of power that feel as relevant today as they are in this imagined world.

Musically, the album draws from the likes of Kamelot, Ayreon, and Symphony X while intertwining the melodic grandeur synonymous with Queen. Guitarist Juha-Matti “Masa” Berg emphasizes the album's multifaceted nature: “Every song reveals new details with each listen, yet the overall journey remains cohesive.” It’s a carefully crafted experience that beckons for repeated exploration.

As End Of Abyss grows from solitary dreams to a collaborative force, the lineup now boasts the powerful vocals of Mikko Herranen, alongside Pöytäkangas and bassist Janne Koskenkorva. Herranen reflects on their journey: “If I were asked to write the story of how this album was made, I would title it: ‘End Of Abyss: From A Dream To A Masterpiece.’” With tracks like “Vultures” and “Astral Dreams,” this album is not just a debut; it’s a statement that demands to be heard.