Album Review: Delain – Dark Waters (Napalm Records)

Delain break into new realms with their eagerly awaited, brand new full-length, Dark Waters, out February 10, 2023, via Napalm Records.

It marks a new chapter in the band’s history and presents the brainchild of keyboardist, founder, and main songwriter Martijn Westerholt with a new lineup. Rejoining the fold and bolstering Delain’s continuity are original guitarist Ronald Landa and original drummer Sander Zoer, while new members – vocalist Diana Leah and bassist Ludovico Cioffi – continue to evolve their sound.

A refreshed and re-energised Delain but one that stays true to the sound that has made them such a beloved symphonic metal band. It’s a scary time for listeners though, as with any major line-up change to a favourite band. Even more so when one major aspect is the change of vocalist. Charlotte Wessels has left some big shoes to fill having sung for Delain for around 16 years.

Happily, by drip-feeding singles in the run-up to this release, Delain has comfortably introduced Diana Leah’s voice to ears, and most have come away satisfied. Not only able to carry the weight of Delain’s past but able to add her own voice to proceedings. Soft, sweet, and passionate, but also able to hit incredible and epic highs. Notable from the moment that the dramatic opener Hideaway Paradise begins. A track that doesn’t quite hit with the big symphonic aplomb many would like but has a solid chorus and is a good showcase of the new, combined talents of Delain.

The ‘oomph’ we’re looking for is found on The Quest and the Curse though as Delain go big. Thumping rhythm, epic symphonic detail, warming melody, varied vocal styles, and massive harmonies.

Paolo Ribaldini of Seraphiel and Skiltron then makes his first of several guest appearances on the album, adding his vocal talents to Beneath. An energetic blast of starry and haunting melody, smooth vocal harmonisation, and punchy metal groove. Followed then by the symphonic drama of Mirror of Night, the war-like instrumental rhythm of Tainted Hearts, and the epic delivery of The Cold. A trio of exciting and memorable Delain offerings.

Though, if heart-racing and more anthemic music is what you’re after, Moth to a Flame will certainly deliver. Delain delivering a track that has wider appeal because it is so catchy. Heck, the synth touches alone make it a must listen.

Paolo Ribaldini returns to help Queen of Shadow sound immeasurably bombastic, before being joined by bassist and vocalist of Nightwish, Marko Hietala, on the gorgeous Invictus. A union that just makes so much sense and results in the most grandiose track of all. Making it one hell of a tough task for Underland to follow and close out the album.

Happily, it doesn’t change the formula up and simply sees Delain continue to push epic symphonic detail, rhythmic metal heaviness, and a killer chorus to the forefront. A solid closer to an album that will certainly see long-term Delain fans breathe a sigh of relief. The future is certainly looking bright for this band.

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