Whilst Melodic Metal act TEMPERANCE have been around for a while, I came across them for the first time in 2020 with their release of Veridian. Their empowering sounds and excellent musicianship ensured that I stuck around to see what else they had to offer up. I am very glad I did; I quickly discovered that they are one of the best live acts around. Their latest album Hermitage – Daruma’s Eyes Pt 2 will ensure their fan base keeps on growing and they carry on getting the recognition they deserve. Let me explain.
With album opener Daruma, you are greeted with bombastic symphonic arrangements off the bat. It hits you with an impact and drags you along for the ride whether you are ready for it or not. This majesty is increased with the poetic words from guest narrator Arjen Lucassen a.k.a AYREON.
Throughout this album, you are taken on an epic tale of wonder, curiosity and excitement. This is done through the spinechilling music arrangements and poetic lyrics that will take you to another universe. This is the first album with new vocalist Kristin Sparkes and she does a fantastic job on this record. Below are just a few examples of what this wonderful album has to offer up.
From the start of A Hero Reborn, you can imagine someone pulling a sword out; they look ready for battle. Musically, I am reminded of the level Hollow Bastion in the game Kingdom Hearts; this is one of the last levels in the game and so there is a lot of anticipation, wondering if you ready to conquer the battle. As the track picks up, the protagonist is ready and this reflects incredibly well in the triumphant sounding music.
From the grand opening notes of Welcome To Hermitage, it’s clear this will not be out of place in a fantasy epic. Immediately, I am taken to this alternative universe through the poetic lyrics telling a story and the bone chilling music arrangements add to this fantastical atmosphere. Guest vocalists Fabienne Erni (ELUVEITIE, ILLUMISHADE) and Laura Fella (FAUN) do a great job in this track, their remarkable voices add to the whimsical movements this track presents.
First impression of Into The Void? If Ghost Love Score was written by KAMELOT and it featured in a Tim Burton film. That is a huge compliment from me; those are all great things. The theatrical spoken words wouldn’t be out of place in the wacky world of Tim Burton, the grand symphonic arrangements are NIGHTWISH-esque and the vocal work is very KAMELOT. This is one of my personal favourite tracks on the album.
It ends on a very grand note with Cliff. This is a track AVANTASIA wish they had written; it’s grand, majestic and full of wonder. I also wonder if it’s the title Cliff is short for cliff-hanger. It would make sense as this closer leaves you wanting more.
Hermitage – Daruma’s Eyes Pt 2 is a masterpiece that proves TEMPERANCE are ones to look out for. This album requires your undivided attention so do yourselves a favour; put this record on, close your eyes and let your imagination do the rest.
Rating: 10/10
Words: Lotty Whittingham
Hermitage – Daruma’s Eyes Pt 2 is out now.
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