Astral Doors, the Swedish metal veterans, have returned with their tenth album, The End Of It All, after a five-year hiatus since their last release Worship or Die. As the title suggests, there is an air of finality to this record, which could very well be the band’s swan song. With over two decades of delivering classic heavy metal inspired by the likes of Dio and Rainbow, this new offering stays true to their formula, yet feels both reflective and potent.

Recorded in their hometown of Borlänge, Sweden, the album finds the band in top form, blending melodic heavy metal with elements of hard rock and touches of epic metal. Nils Patrik Johansson’s vocals remain a powerful standout, echoing the unmistakable influence of Ronnie James Dio, yet still distinctively his own. His commanding voice, especially on tracks like the fast-paced opener “Temple of Lies” and the anthemic “Iron Dome,” brings a sense of grandeur and authority to the record.

Instrumentally, the band’s tight chemistry shines through, with Johan Lindstedt on drums and Joachim Nordlund on guitar driving the core sound. Their songwriting continues to strike a balance between heavy riffs, melodic hooks, and symphonic elements, as seen in tracks like “Game of Terror” and the more doom-laden “Vikings Rise.” The use of keyboards, courtesy of Jocke Roberg, adds atmospheric depth, enhancing the band’s more epic tendencies without overpowering the guitar-driven essence.

While The End Of It All doesn’t drastically deviate from the path Astral Doors have followed since their 2003 debut, it also doesn’t need to. The band’s formula—tight, riff-heavy metal with melodic flourishes—continues to work, and longtime fans will find plenty to enjoy. If anything, the album’s consistency is a testament to their craft, and while some may argue there’s little progression, Astral Doors deliver exactly what’s expected: solid, classic metal with no frills.

On vinyl, the production shines with warmth and clarity, highlighting the detailed instrumentation and Johansson’s soaring voice. Tracks like “Heaven’s Gate” and “Vikings Rise” benefit particularly well from the analog format, where the dynamics of the mix are allowed to breathe.

The End Of It All may carry a bittersweet message, as it could potentially be the last Astral Doors album, but it serves as a powerful statement from a band that has stayed true to their roots. Whether it marks an end or a new beginning remains to be seen, but for now, it stands as a fitting addition to their legacy.

Verdict: A must-have for fans of classic heavy metal, The End Of It All offers a satisfying conclusion to two decades of Astral Doors. The vinyl format elevates its sound, making it a solid addition to any metalhead’s collection.

7,5/10

AlbumThe End Of It All

Band: Astral Doors

Label: Metalville

Distribution: Metalville

Release date: October 2024

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