Album Review: Therion - Leviathan III

Therion’s latest release, Leviathan III, is the final part of a trilogy that showcases the band’s unique blend of symphonic grandeur and experimentation.

The album opens with Ninkigal, a black metal-infused track that explodes with brutality and operatic beauty. Ruler Of Tamag echoes the grandeur of Therion’s 2004 concept album Gothic Kabbalah, while An Unsung Lament explores arena rock with an infectious riff and Lori Lewis’s impeccable vocals. Ayahuasca marks a shift in direction, toying with hypnotic rhythms and unexpected transitions, while Twilight of the Gods is a whirlwind of symphonic metal bound to leave listeners spinning.

The album showcases impressive musicianship, as expected from the experienced Swedish artists. The guitar work is particularly noteworthy, featuring a range of techniques from sweep picking to flamenco guitars that are utilized effectively in some tracks. However, the latter half of the album features shorter and more formulaic compositions, which could be attributed to either a deliberate artistic choice or time constraints. Unfortunately, this detracts from the overall strength of the album. Additionally, the production standards do not meet Therion’s usual high standards.

For those new to Therion, while Leviathan III is still a highly enjoyable offering with genuinely catchy grooves and melodies, it may not be the best starting point for exploring the band’s expansive and colorful discography. Earlier works like Theli or Vovin showcase Therion at their peak of symphonic metal mastery. For long-time fans willing to embrace the band’s adventurous spirit, Leviathan III is a rewarding listen.

Verdict

Leviathan III is a tapestry of grandeur and experimentation, however, the album’s lackluster production and formulaic second half tend to drag things down.