Description

Caelestia are a four-piece progressive and melodic death-metal band from Athens, Greece. Their 2015 album, Beneath Abyss, fits together nicely as there is a contrast between progressive, melodic metal and death metal. Caelestia offer every metal fan something that they can really enjoy, no matter which style of metal they prefer. There are the deep, guttural, growling vocals from Nik, contrasted with the melodic, almost soothing vocals of front-woman Dimitria. The contrast of vocals is matched with both heavy, driving drumbeats and deep guitar riffs, and at other points with more melodic melodies that almost sound like symphonic metal at points. The musical style reminds me somewhat of Dimmu Borgir and Niks vocals remind me of those sung by Borgir front-man Shagrath. Tracks like Blessing Of Tragedy and Mi Ultima Vida feature primarily heavy, grovelling vocals from Nik while Dimitria provides secondary melodies throughout the songs. Other tracks such as Beneath Abyss and Silent Despair are primarily dominated by Dimtrias vocals and accompanied by Niks heavier voice in the background. The music alternates similarly between heavy, grinding death metal vibes, and more melodic pieces that can almost resemble symphonic music at points throughout the release. While the sounds might seem completely opposite in writing, in reality they work quiet well together. This release can offer something to fans of both death and progressive, symphonic metal alike to enjoy. This band clearly shows musical and vocal versatility throughout their release. It sets the platform for a solid future in which the band can take any of a few different directions on their next release. Or another combination of several different directions if so desired. While many bands may not have the ability to pull of so many different sounds as Caelestia does on Beneath Abyss the musical ability of this group is exceptional, as are the vocal abilities of both Dimitria and Nik as singers. This combination of sounds is a smash hit for Caelestia

Track listing:
1. Malleus Maleficarum
2. Gate Of Shadows
3. The Grand Sublimation-instrumental
4. Blessing Of Tragedy-with Bjoern Speed Strid (Soilwork)
5. Beneath Abyss-with Andrew Geo (Alterself)
6. Mi Ultima Vida
7. Secret Rite-with Markus Freiwald (Sodom)
8. Silent Despair-instrumental
9. Lake Of Decay
10. The Rise Of The Hidden Nature