NARNIA – From Darkness To Light

From Darkness To Light is the 8th studio release from Swedish Progressive Metal/Neoclassical band Narnia.  Taking their name from the C.S Lewis novels, Narnia is certainly not shy about their Christian themed lyrical content.  Whereas that might normally be a deterrent for some, it is very tastefully done.  The lyrics have an epic quality to them, as if recanting a knights journey thru a perilous land, as opposed to an overt evangelistic bent.  It also helps that this is a world class album.  From Darkness To Light kicks off with “A Crack In The Sky”, a very Progressive but hard driving and melodic offering that sets the tone for the entire record.

One cant help but draw comparisons to Dream Theater sonically and production wise. Christian Liljegren’s vocals are alternately gritty and melodious, as needed.  CJ Grimmark’s guitar work is crisp and impressive throughout.  Andreas “Habo” Johansson grooves and syncopates, adding dimension to the arrangements, and Martin Härenstam, keyboards and Jonatan Samuelsson, bass, add lush and satisfying texture.  Not every song relies heavily on Progressive elements. “The Air That I Breathe”, for example, is a pretty straightforward modern hard rocker.  Overall, From Darkness To Light is well done. Fans of Progressive Metal, Hard Rock, Melodic Rock, Dream Theater, and of course, longtime Narnia fans will find some good listening here.

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