Metal/Review Illyria - Wanderlust
Originally based in Perth, Western Australia, Illyria was founded by Ilija Stajić in late 2013 whilst travelling in Europe looking for a new, refreshing sound to compose and bring back to the Southern hemisphere. Inspired by fellow contemporaries Alcest, Deafheaven, Lantlôs, and Les Discrets, Illyria's goal is to capture the gracious melodies and pulsating rhythms of the hybrid genre while promoting the accessibility of the genre to new listeners around the world.
The album "Wanderlust" by Australian progressive metal band Illyria is a musical voyage that deftly treads the turbulent waters between chaos and harmony. "Wanderlust" transports listeners to an dramatic and thought-provoking aural journey by presenting a dichotomy of menacing danger and distinct beauty, much like the feeling of traveling across uncharted territory.
The production of "Wanderlust," which was mixed and processed by Simone Pietroforte, is a noteworthy feature. It provides a soundscape that strikes a balance between epicness and devastation and melancholy periods for introspection. The album's intense production evokes a wide spectrum of moods and emotions, perfectly encapsulating the band's study of the enormous potential of progressive metal.
Illyria skillfully blends black and death metal with elements of metalcore and deathcore, combining a multitude of extreme metal styles. Progressive rock influences add to the already dense layering, making this album even more nuanced and demanding many listening to properly appreciate all of its subtleties and complexity. Every song on "Wanderlust" is painstakingly composed, with complex melodies, pounding drumming, and strong vocals that exude raw passion and a feeling of urgency.
The band's versatility is seen by songs like "Pragma" and "Frostbite," which alternate between fast-paced, intense sections and slower-paced, melodic sections. Because of this dynamic interaction and the album's frequent and unexpected changes in speed and tone, listeners are kept interested throughout.
"Wanderlust" is more than simply an album; it's an encounter that challenges listeners to face the orderly and disorderly parts of their own travels. Illyria has pushed the limits of what progressive metal can be with her music, which is both demanding and gratifying. "Wanderlust" is an important accomplishment for Illyria, securing their status in the progressive metal scene and making a lasting effect on everyone who enters its aural domain with its potent production, complex compositions, and emotional depth.