WITHIN TEMPTATION – Hydra

Dutch Symphonic Metalists Within Temptation have released their 6^th studio album entitled Hydra. There seems to be so many Progressive / Symphonic / Operatic Female-fronted Metal bands these days… but what makes Within Temptation so much better or different to warrant them a MAJOR record label deal with Universal/BMG? Why did they hit it “big” while other talented bands of the same ilk struggle with small labels in relative obscurity? Well, for starters Sharon den Adel sings like an angelic-inspired harmonic dream, and the rest of the cast complement her talents in an understated rhythmic way, never really claiming the spotlight.

With Hydra, the band throws a few interesting curve balls into the mix by including guest vocal appearances by Tarja Turunen (ex-Nightwish), rapper Xzibit (Symphonic Rap Metal? – it works!), Howard Jones (Killswitch Engage), and Dave Pirner (Soul Asylum). All in all, Within Temptation again shows why they belong with the “big boys” by delivering a diversified, soothing, dreamy, easy to listen to, understated Symphonic Metal work of art. The band toils hard at “perfectly” crafting each song, and the end product works!