Review - Voivod - Symphonique - Released 5th June

Words by BeckyKat Kaptures

Today I have the absolute pleasure to review Voivod's orchestral masterpiece -  Symphonique. A live recording which must have been awe-inspiring to witness. 

Beginning there is 'Experiment', an orchestral slow build up into heavy riffs and strings, with vocals which tie in well developing a haunting atmosphere. Excellent guitar solo. This emotive track develops a sense of foreboding. 

Into 'Holographic thinking' with well rounded strong vocals and body of full bass instruments with guitars. 

Moving into a quite upbeat and fun 'The Unknown Knows'.  There are playful interaction between guitars and the orchestra. Ends quirkily with an organ. 

Trumpets open 'The end of Dormancy', then heavy riffs with full orchestral backing bring this track into full force. Interlude with epic atmospheric sounds of drums and guitars, reminiscent of a cinematic experience. This track keeps building with layers of sound and emotion. 

'Into my Hypercube' has blissful momentum as the vocals and instruments take us on a journey. Includes a wonderful guitar solo which speeds up our adventure. 

The mood darkens as we enter into 'Forgotten in Space', the strings, guitars and brass, especially create a darken atmosphere. 

Wind instruments build into 'Cosmic Drama'. This steadier paced track has some higher pitched notes creating the feeling of tension and drama. 

'Pre-ignition', there's a short and sharp, back and forth, questioning tone to this song. Playful interaction of vocals and instruments. Speeds up as continues feeling almost urgent. 

Starting slow and steady, 'Nuclear War' has a moody build up into speedy riffs backed by the orchestra. A demanding track that keeps you to a strong beat. 

'Fall' has a slow emotive build into darker sludgers sounds.  Then into something much more urgent and concerning with the high-pitched, almost shrill wind instruments against the heavy riffs. 

Epic tempo-ed beginnings of 'Tribal Convictions' build into sweeping sounds, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty. 

The fast paced interlude sounds like a race towards unknown times with a great guitar solo. 

A beautiful guitar intro brings us into the final track of 'Astronomy Domine'. Gradual build up to draw this work of art to it's conclusion.

What a journey, really did feel like a soundtrack to a intense movie that I'd love to watch.