Leprous – Aphelion

While it is true that “Aphelion” pretty much follows its older sibling “Pitfalls” on the “de-metalization” (if such a word exists!) trend of @leprousofficial sound, I feel it to be a little more fuel-injected: the guitars, bass and drums are more upfront in the mix here, and overall seems like the songwriting and production has been given some extra energy push. It sounds as if it shared Pitfalls’ bleak look on life but, instead of defeat, “Aphelion” transmits a will to fight despite life’s blows.

Of course, the times of “The Congregation” or “Bilateral” are far behind, and “Aphelion” is a way more textured album, following the trend started by “Malina”, where electronica elements (“Silhouette” or “Have You Ever?”) and strings are freely used across these new 10 songs, with Einar Solberg’s voice taking the spotlight and commanding the album’s mood swings.

Synthpop elements appear here and there, but that’s not a problem with me: I like my prog to be exactly that, progressive, and I like bands that dare mixing rock with other styles as long as this is done coherently and tastefully.

To be fair, it is true that sometimes you feel a little over-the-top “drama” in Aphelion’s songwriting and Solberg’s performance, but that has always been part of Leprous’ personality, so I accept it for what it’s worth.

On the other hand, “Aphelion” contains three songs that have since made it to my personal top ten of the whole band’s catalogue: “Out Of Here”, “On Hold” and “Castaway Angels”. I truly believe that these three are top class songwriting acts. The two former are heartfelt performed and really move me each time I listen to them, and the last is a fine example of a delicate, layered and tasteful crescendo that shows truly songwriting mastery and maturity.

As in “Pitfalls”, “Aphelion” wraps up with a nod to the old Leprous in the brilliant “Night Time Disguise” where we even get some of Einar’s finest shrieks to great effect.
All in all, if not my favourite Leprous album, “Aphelion” is another great addition to a flawless discography. Not a small achievement by any means.

this is a 2 cd set.
What does "All Media" mean as a format ???

A great pressing. Sounds stunning with nice dynamics (especially for the genre), punchiness and aggressiveness where needed. Great vocal tones. The people mixing and mastering this have done a great job.

Immediately became one of my reference rock/prog-metal records.

This is an awesome album. Aside from the fantastic songs, the pressing and sound quality are fantastic. No pop/clicks. The bass is so punchy, strings rich, and al of the instrumentation is so well separated. Clarity is the key here. The record is very well layered. It defines the sound of urgency.

What a great album! I just bought this today and first impression is amazing. It's progressive rock no doubt, but with a classical, ambient and Norwegian jazz twist. I like it!

How does this pressing sound to you? Ten words needed.

Good version, it looks stunning! Unfortunately there is some surface noise in quiet parts...such a pity!

Sounds incredible!

DR11 -0.62 dB -16.42 dB 6:28 01-Running Low
DR11 -0.01 dB -15.87 dB 4:14 02-Out Of Here
DR11 -0.76 dB -15.61 dB 3:40 03-Silhouette
DR11 -0.82 dB -15.48 dB 6:51 04-All The Moments
DR12 -0.71 dB -17.33 dB 4:41 05-Have You Ever
DR11 -1.16 dB -16.03 dB 5:43 06-The Silent Revelation
DR11 -1.81 dB -16.14 dB 4:26 07-The Shadow Side
DR11 -0.61 dB -16.60 dB 7:44 08-On Hold
DR10 -1.80 dB -17.41 dB 4:52 09-Castaway Angels
DR10 -1.18 dB -15.54 dB 7:02 10-Nighttime Disguise
DR12 -0.96 dB -16.24 dB 2:58 11-A Prophecy To Trust
DR11 0.00 dB -14.87 dB 9:05 12-Acquired Taste (Live 2021)

No Lacquer cut name ? ? ? ? ? ?