German symphonic power metal band Leaves Eyes return with a brand new four track EP `Song of Darkness` following up their 2024 album `Myths of Fate` with three new members joining the band with Florian Ewert (guitar), Dominik Prykiel (bass) and Simon Skrlec (drums) adding to the current trio of Elina Siirala (vocals), Alexander Krull (vocals, keyboards), and Luc Gebhardt (guitar).
This extended play opens with the title track `Song Of Darkness` which is inspired by the medieval Icelandic saga of Gisli the Outlaw and takes the listener to times of murder and intrigue, guilt-ridden magical dreams, and the hope of redemption. It begins with gentle almost vulnerable vocals before becoming more contemplative. Elina`s vocals betray an almost heart aching tenderness as the number progresses with some superb guitar riffs and powerful backing, a real marker for what`s to follow. We have in `Hall of the Brave` a track that has a delightful percussive underbelly which allows Elina`s soprano vocal delivery to interchange and compliment the more growled and unclean vocals shared by Alexander. The number builds in power and intensity and nods towards the band`s passion for Viking themes with an almost orchestrated operatic ambience.
`Until the Last Day` begins with what sounds like a call to arms and has Alexander`s growled vocals leading us in before Elina takes over and the track becomes more reflective. The dual vocals balance each other on this thoughtful absorbed submission. The final offering `Roots Eternal` is more ballad like and dreamy and seems to hint at rebirth, renewal, or regeneration. A beautifully subtle guitar solo, accompanied by strumming, appears midway through the piece before this evocative and ethereal composition concludes.
The `Song of Darkness` extended play gave a real flavour of the variety of styles this gothic-infused symphonic metal outfit are capable of producing with lyrics that shift between myth, magic, and history. A welcome reminder of Leaves Eyes talents which comes as a short tour is undertaken and i`m sure a taste of an anticipated album to follow.
Welcome back Leaves Eyes.
Rating 9/10
