REVIEW: CRYSTAL TEARS - Athanato

 

CRYSTAL TEARS - Athanato

Sliptrick Records

Seven years of silence. That's a long time for any band, especially one that wants to maintain its presence on the scene. The Greek band Crystal Tears, however, didn't remain idle. They've returned with their sixth album, Athanato, and the long wait was not only worthwhile but perfectly justified their strategy. In collaboration with Sliptrick Records and under the guidance of Grammy-winning producer Matt Hyde, the band delivers a work that exceeds expectations, creating an anthology of ideas and influences that never gets boring. Hyde's production is one of the album's biggest strengths. He manages to give the Crystal Tears sound a dark, atmospheric, and aggressive dimension while preserving the melody that defines them. The final result is a modern heavy/power metal blend that sounds both solid and dynamic.

The album opens with the title track, Athanato, a dark and majestic composition. Antony's vocals have a thrash metal edge reminiscent of Sentenced's Amok and Dawn era, while the rhythmic changes and atmosphere even nod to Opeth, creating a multilayered introduction. Bloodstorm follows with a more direct heavy metal composition, featuring clear references to Dream Evil and a strong aura of Mercyful Fate and King Diamond. The participation of guitarist Mike Wead on the solo and Sarissa's George Simeonidis on guest vocals adds both international and Greek prestige, highlighting the album's quality. Next, Naked comes as a big surprise. It's the first metal composition by Helena Josefsson, known from Roxette. The song has a melodic pop/rock sensitivity, making it perhaps the most commercial moment on the album, reminiscent of Evanescence, all while maintaining its metal identity. All Sins Remembered serves as a tribute to Mystic Prophecy and the band's long-time producer R.D. Liapakis. Antony's vocals take on a thrash metal tone that alludes to the final period of Death and Chuck Schuldiner's Control Denied, adding technical proficiency and power.

The variety continues with Crawl Into Your Grave, a track with a catchy, sing-along chorus that perfectly blends melody with rhythmic sections. Ghostdance stands out as a modern melodic power metal song whose melodic line brings to mind the classic Running Wild, without, however, adopting their signature galloping riffs. Ov Flesh And Pain is the album's moment that brings the U.S. Metal style to the forefront, similar to bands like Vicious Rumors and Metal Church. Its ending, however, with its complex rhythmic pattern, alludes to Morgana Lefay. Chaos Thy Name is the ultimate thrash metal moment on the album, both in its title and composition, bringing to mind the recent Kreator. The album closes with two special choices: a cover of the song from the Philippines, Nosi Balasi, as a tribute to the band's tours there, and the first instrumental of their career, Eros & Psyche. Inspired by the ancient myth, this instrumental track provides an ideal, narrative epilogue that harmoniously ties into the album's philosophy. Finally, the cover of You Could Be Mine by Guns N' Roses, featuring Jay Walsh of Xentrix, offers an optimistic and powerful conclusion.

In summary, Athanato is a work that proves the artistic maturity of Crystal Tears. They not only managed to make a dynamic return after a long absence but also delivered an album that successfully blends the classic with the modern.

Nick Parastatidis