Rating: 9/10
Release: 14 July 2023
Label: AFM Records

“There shines a new light in our world! The everfrost is calling!” And call it did! “Everfrost” (not to be confused with the band of the same name) is the first release from Winterstorm since 2016’s epic concept album “Cube of Infinity”. Winterstorm is a five-member German power metal band with deep, clear vocals and symphonic and folk embellishments. The new album marches forward and is a great and worthy companion in the wintery compendium.

True to form, the album starts with a voiceover. This time, mankind has forgotten its origins and needs to get closer to nature. This sets the tone for the lyrical themes of the entire album, and given current affairs in 2023, this is more relevant than ever. It’s short and the symphonic background blends nicely into the first track’s big, sweeping orchestral opening and the fun begins. The album gives us eleven tracks (plus the opening), and there’s a common musical theme: my track notes for almost all of the songs start with “nice refrain!”. They’re quite memorable and pop out from the surrounding song. This is a really cool style and happens most effectively in the title track.

“Everfrost” is worth mentioning since it’s the title of the album. It starts with rhythm out in front and jumps into some guitar riffing and the lyrics, clean as always, talking about better times. “Salvation’s on the way”. The song drops down speed by about 30bpm to hit the refrain, then takes off again. There’s a slice of that orchestral savory pie in the middle and a really nice bridge. The ending then goes in a different, more prog direction. It’s really unique and special.

“Phoenix Died” is my favorite track, though. It includes the hearty symphonic gravy, trademark memorable refrain, and has guest vocalist Elina Siirala lending her talent. All of the tracks are punching at the listener with the environmental message of the album, and this one landed a solid blow.

The album has a clear message about the future of humanity in the midst of apocalyptic environmental destruction. Winterstorm reminds us of the fate of Atlantis, our part in the crusade against the circle of greed to the final journey. The message is cohesive, unified, targeted, and an absolute earworm. Being a German album, some of the English is awkward and flat, most notably in “Crusade” and “Silence”, but the music, vocal talent, and overall hopeful message outshine any shortcomings.

I had high hopes after hearing “Cube of Infinity”, and Winterstorm absolutely surpassed any expectations by delivering nearly a dozen high-energy environmentally-themed anthems. If it’s not clear yet, it’s worth listening through several times at the very least.

​Tracklist

01. Origin
02. To The End Of All Known
03. The Phoenix Died (Remember)
04. Circle Of Greed
05. Future Times
06. Everfrost
07. Final Journey
08. Fate Of The Atlanteans
09. Crusade
10. Overcome The Fear
11. Silence​