Italian Progressive Symphonic Metal band Degrees Of Truth seem determined to take full advantage of their new home on Scarlet Records. After two previous albums (one in 2016 and another in 2019), they’ve re-energised themselves with a new vocalist and a more focused, harder edge to their already technical sound. That word ‘progressive’ is an important addition to the Symphonic Metal tag that’s displayed on “Alchemists”, because as proved on previous albums, Degrees Of Truth like to mix things up a little musically. But this time around there is a new thread to their music.

The evolvement of the band seems to be twofold, musically and vocally, but then of course the two go hand in hand when one inspires the other and vice versa. Previous singer Claudia Nora Pezzotta was no slouch in the vocal department, maybe just lacking a little confidence, but new vocalist Claudia Beltrame is pushed higher in the mix and given a freer rein to carry the impressive vocal melodies that this album is peppered with. These are given more validity however by the music having a heavier edge along with the time and mood changes being smooth and the arrangements interesting and varied.

Degrees Of Truth always had their own identity, eschewing the easy Symphonic Metal trappings in favour of a more diverse and unexpected twist to their songs. On “Alchemists” however they’ve got the blend just right with an enticing swathe of tracks that hook you in with vocal melodies but keep you guessing as to what’s around the corner in each song. This means comparisons are tricky, but Kingfisher Sky and Stream Of Passion spring to mind, bookended (but by no means defined by) Cellar Darling and Delain at either side. Plus much more of course.

There’s an audible confidence about the band as they are now. They try things musically that they know they can pull off, all given a cohesion by splashes of gorgeous melodies, an underlying power and a rather excellent production. Whatever you listen for within the music is instantly accessible, it’s clear and concise, which pushes forward the progressive elements without any part of the song feeling awkward or out of place. That’s mainly down to the professional song arrangements of course, but it’s always nice to hear every element of a band able to shine. If you’re looking for a Symphonic Metal band who dare to push their sound into more complex areas then Degrees Of Truth have certainly come of age and are more than worthy of your attention.

(8/10 Andy Barker)

https://www.facebook.com/degreesoftruthofficial

https://degreesoftruth.bandcamp.com/album/a-l-c-h-e-m-i-s-t-s