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WITHIN TEMPTATION
Hydra

Dramatico (2014)
Rating: 8.5/10

Within Temptation is a band that has earned their place in the world of metal. Although toying with doom and goth early in their career, this Dutch metal outfit is best known for their string of highly respected symphonic metal releases, featuring the strong vocals of Sharon den Adel.

High calibre musicianship and a mix of muscular metal and sweet vocal melodies have become the band’s calling card over the years. Hydra builds upon this well-established foundation, bringing further depth by utilizing a wide array of guests to enhance the experience.

Let’s get one thing straight right from the start: Within Temptation doesn’t need to employ guests to sell albums or make great music. This is a band that is able to hold their own, and the opening track sets out to prove just that. ‘Let Us Burn’ opens with a lone guitar, establishing the riff in a way that pays homage to drama used by bands like Queensrÿche to usher the listener into an album. The melody is soon established, and by the time the band explodes into the chorus there is a palpable energy about this song. There is a maturity surrounding the driving drums and atmospheric keys that speaks volumes about Within Temptation’s status as a veteran metal band. Clearly, this is a band who is able to stand on their own.

Indeed, the rumors are true. Hydra is jam-packed with guests. Much to the delight of listeners, this never becomes the focus of a song, but adds another layer of charm and complexity. ‘Dangerous’ is a strong song that races forward with muscular guitars and a hook that boasts just enough pop shine to bring metal to the masses without compromising power or attitude. The addition of ex-Killswitch Engage vocalist Howard Jones just adds a new element to an already excellent song.

Many fans will have heard the ‘Paradise (What About Us?)’ single featuring former Nightwish vocalist Tarja Turunen. This was released as an album teaser, and it’s easy to see why it was chosen. As the band creates a wall of distortion and synthesized string sounds den Adel and Turunen share the spotlight, creating strong harmonies and soaring operatic vocals.

The most surprising guest, and possibly the most surprising song on this release, can be found on the closing track ‘Whole World Is Watching’. Part ballad and part anthem, den Adel trades vocal lines with Soul Asylum’s Dave Pirner among flowing keys, a melodic piano line and the chunky guitars that fans have come to expect from Within Temptation. The addition of a guest from outside the realm of heavy metal is an unexpected treat, and Pirner’s gravelly vocals are a perfect counterpoint for Sharon den Adel’s clear, precise melodies.

While the numerous guests add interest to this album, it’s easy to imagine the band performing these songs live without them. Some of the best moments on Hydra are the ones without extra staff involved. ‘Dog Days’ is a beautiful mid-tempo symphonic rock number. Its subdued verses allow den Adel’s lyrics to shine. ‘Edge Of The World’ highlights how well Within Temptation brings pop influence into their metal structure, bringing in fans from outside the walled garden of the metal community. As the bass and drums build through the second verse it becomes apparent how far the band has grown over the nearly two decades they’ve been releasing albums. ‘Silver Moonlight’ shows the band at their strongest, fully embracing and exorcising their heavy metal demons.

Within Temptation has created another enjoyable album in a string of worthy releases that has been their career. Sure, it’s a bit formulaic, but the band sticks to their own formula; the one they have perfected over the years. As a fan, I’d like to hear more of the fine lead guitar work showed off in songs like ‘Silver Moonlight’ and it seems that several of the choruses are similar enough to be interchangeable. If you’re already familiar with Within Temptation, you know they’re a strong band with an established approach, and that approach will be in full effect on Hydra. This is a band who does what they do, and does it well. Any Within Temptation fan will find much to enjoy in Hydra.

Jim McDonald

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