The French outfit known as Remember the Light is an interesting one. This self-released record of theirs starts out with melancholy piano tinklings and moving strings only to explode into a full-on symphonic metal assault. The strong female vocals, the epic atmosphere, and the bombastic riffs immediately stand out and the music is catchy and yet filled with just the right amount of wicked little details and subtle nuances to warrant repeated listens. There is nothing new or different to what this ensemble does, but the songs are so well-written and enjoyable that there is hardly any point in discussing whether this stuff is innovative or not. What matters is that there is a certain confidence present on the album that is irresistible and that the tunes are both diverse and dynamic. Obviously, there are plenty of mellow, calm, and introspective parts with a goth-like quality to them on display here, but loads of aggressive and punchy ones too, so have no fear; this is a varied disc.

 

My only complaint is that the growled male vocals are somewhat one-dimensional and the drums a little too buried in the mix from time to time, but other than that, it ticks all the right boxes for me. Some might find this 6-track offering (or parts of it) slightly pompous, but this is nevertheless one of the better and more inspired symphonic metal releases that yours truly has come across for quite some time. Its strong melodies and dramatic edge ought to convince any fan of the genre out there, and listening to it late at night while it is pouring down outside does work like a charm, so give it a number of spins and support Remember the Light. If nothing else, check the tracks entitled "The Inescapable Cycle" and "Heroes" out as they are exceptionally cool and cleverly written with plenty of hooks to them.

 

https://rememberthelight.bandcamp.com/