Metal lovers prepare yourselves for an epic journey through history, metal style , as symphonic metal geniuses Leaves’ Eyes have recently released their seventh album “Sign of the Dragonhead.” The album is the band’s first full length record since the departure of Liv Kristine and features their new vocalist, the classically trained Elina Siirala.
Leaves’ Eyes have always excelled at the story telling aspect of music and “Sign of the Dragonhead” continues the tradition with monumental tales of Nordic mythology and historical sagas. Musically the band is amazing as always with the heavy guitars of Thorsten Bauer and Pete Streit balanced nicely with orchestral arrangements on ‘Jomsberg” and”Waves of Euphoria.” Vocally Leaves’ Eyes is known for their differing vocal styles with the guttural sounds of Alexander Krull in sharp contrast to the haunting beauty of Elina Siirala. It’s clear that Siirala is up to the challenge vocally and has eased into the band setting quite well. The title track is a melodic metal tune which continues the story of King Harald I of Norway while “Across The Sea” is a fantastic metal sea chanty. Other outstanding tracks include the poignant, tragic love song “Like a Mountain” and the Celtic rock romp on the acoustic “Riders on the Wind.”
“Sign of the Dragonhead” is another well done record from Leaves’ Eyes continuing them to the top of the symphonic metal genre. I can’t wait to see where the journey takes them next.
