Artist: Ad Infinitum
Title: Chapter III Downfall
Label: Napalm Records
Cat #: NPR1194D9
Release Year: 2023
Duration: Album
Format: CD
Packaging Type: Digipak

 Chapter III - Downfall is the third album from the Swiss symphonic metal band Ad Infinitum.

This rising modern symphonic metal outfit has honed their signature sound, blending powerful, modern, and progressive riffs with addictive symphonic nuances, all anchored by the incomparable vocal skills of Melissa Bonny. This winning formula has propelled them to unstoppable ascension in the metal world since their debut in 2020, amassing millions of video views and streams worldwide.

"Chapter III - Downfall" enchants listeners with an innovative sound that juxtaposes soaring melodic splendour with brooding, dark, and even gothic heaviness. Exploring themes inspired by Ancient Egyptian history and mythology, AD INFINITUM strikes a perfect balance between storytelling and technically sophisticated songwriting, demonstrating their prowess in both production and lyricism.

The album features charging instrumentals, pounding drums, grooving riffs, mind-boggling solos, and enchanting orchestrations, creating a unique and captivating sonic world. Frontwoman Melissa Bonny's soul-stirring cleans and haunting growls showcase her incredible vocal range, leaving audiences in awe with each line.

The journey begins with the mesmerizing chorus of "Eternal Rains," followed by the eclectic and rule-defying "Upside Down," skillfully combining epic melodies with demonic growls. "Seth" presents a resounding modern sound with eerie ambience, while "From The Ashes" impressively pays homage to artists like Meshuggah, proving AD INFINITUM's ability to surprise.

In "Somewhere Better," vicious vocals merge with ethereal soundscapes, transporting the listener to distant realms of infallible instrumentals. "Under The Burning Skies" takes haunting vocals towards the horizon, unfolding into an intense mid-tempo ballad. As a special treat, the album features Chrigel Glanzmann of Eluveitie, lending his voice for the atmospheric monologue introduction on "Legends," infusing a touch of Middle Eastern-inspired djent flavor.

Produced by AD INFINITUM and Jacob Hansen at Hansen Studios, "Chapter III - Downfall" showcases the quartet's ability to effortlessly infuse contemporary vibes into the genre without forsaking their signature metal roots. This album is set to thrill all metal fans as AD INFINITUM continues their meteoric rise to the top of the metal world!

Recommended if you like: Epica, Nightwish, Within Temptation, Kamelot, Amaranthe, Arion, Metalite, Delain, After Forver, Beyond The Black, Leaves' Eyes

Track Listing:
1. Eternal Rains
2. Upside Down
3. Seth
4. From The Ashes
5. Somewhere Better
6. The Underworld
7. Ravenous
8. Under The Burning Skies
9. Architect Of Paradise
10. The Serpent's Downfall
11. New Dawn
12. Legends