“We will not disband.”
Since forming in Copenhagen in the mid-2000s, VOLA have gradually grown their following to become one of the bands at the forefront of the modern progressive metal scene. What truly makes VOLA stand out is not just their amazing technicality – it’s their ability to pull from a hugely diverse sonic palate and incorporate influences ranging from pop, to electronic, to indie rock, without ever sounding like they’re straining to abandon their core sound.
This eclectic spirit is exemplified in albums such as Applause of a Distant Crowd, which could pivot dramatically from crunching djent riffs to tender piano ballads without losing the plot. Now, with their fourth full-length Friend of a Phantom, VOLA have come to cement their status as rising stars of the genre.
Friend of a Phantom kicks off with “Cannibal”, introducing itself with a monster riff and a scorching guest turn from veteran In Flames vocalist Anders Fridén. Fridén’s screams add a great dynamic contrast with the soaring cleans of lead vocalist/guitarist Asper Mygind, one that will likely lead to fans pining for increased use of unclean vocals in future releases.
Yet VOLA has never been a band that has drawn their strength from being the heaviest out there. And sure enough, the very next track “Break My Lying Tongue” emphasizes a soaring synth melody and alt rock theatrics that wouldn’t feel out of place on a classic Muse album.
A huge highlight comes in the form of mid-tempo anthem “We Will Not Disband”. Opening with tender guitar strumming before expanding into one of VOLA’s most genuinely gorgeous hooks to date, this song is a prime example of the band’s singular ability to combine moments of serene beauty with crushing instrumental heaviness, creating a mixture that – when the band is at the peak of their abilities – can be truly exhilarating.
Fans of the softer moments on Applause of a Distant Crowd will love the chilled-out synth ballad “Glass Mannequin,” which comes as a welcome palate cleanser between more high-intensity tracks. Elsewhere, lead single “Paper Wolf” calls back to the most intense instrumental moments on previous album Witness.
While Friend of a Phantom doesn’t take many major strides into new territory, it sees VOLA refining and solidifying the sonic touchstones that have made them carve out such a loyal fanbase in the modern prog scene. If you’re a fan of any of the band’s past three albums, you’re sure to find plenty of moments to enjoy. And new listeners looking for something outside of the standard djent formula are likely to become entranced with the band’s unique musical spell.
8.5/10
Friend of a Phantom comes out this Friday, November 1st via Mascot Records, and you can pre-order the album here.