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Aries Descendant:
From The Ashes Of Deceit

Symphonic/Melodic/Power Metal

4.5/5.0

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Frontiers Music
Words: Craig Hartranft
Added: 14.10.2024 | Released: 11.10.2024

Aries Descendant is a new metal project created by two friends and talented musicians: Jonah Weingarten (keys, orchestration) and Nicklas Sonne (v,g,b). Weingarten is known famously for his work with Pyramaze since, but also collaborations with peers like Dave Ellefson (Megadeth), James Murphy (Testament, Death), and Matt Barlow (Iced Earth), among many others. Sonne has an equally large resume, having started Defecto, and performing with Evil Masquerade, Theory, Hank Shermann, One Machine, and many more. From The Ashes Of Deceit is their debut album for the Frontiers Music label.

Jonah Weingarten & Nicklas Sonne

Weingarten states: "From The Ashes Of Deceit is our grand statement. This album has come from a great friendship that has been formed between us as well as combined decades of experience in the music industry. Aries Descendant is all about overcoming personal struggles and turning those things into art. We are so excited to share our vision with all of you!"

Musically, drawing from their collective experiences in the genre to create Aries Descendant is, essentially, a symphonic and melodic power metal band. Their song arrangements are highly orchestrated and bombastic with thick riffage and lush keyboards, then peppered with epic keyboard and guitar solos. The formula is self-evident across the album with little variation, perhaps with changes in tempo or frequent softer breakdowns with delicate piano lines.

Fine examples are heard with Renewal Of Hope, Downfall, Oblivion, and Echoes Of Betrayal (that piano). The final song, The Heart Of The Forest, is an instrumental featuring cellist Tina Guo, known for her work with Derek Sherinian, Kamelot, Ministry, Sabaton, et al). I would encourage the reader to listen to the music videos included with this review. A final observation: Sonne, as a vocalist, has some range from softer to assertive tones, from raging to death growling. I found him an acquired taste. Alternatively, he's a fantastic guitar player.

All in all, Aries Descendant and From The Ashes Of Deceit, featuring the talents of Jonah Weingarten and Nicklas Sonne, is well-crafted and entertaining, epic and bombastic, symphonic power metal. Rhapsody Of Fire need to watch their backs. Recommended.

Note: All Amazon advertising in this review first benefits the artist, then Craig Hartranft also receives a residual. Click, and thanks for your support.

Aries Descendant and From The Ashes Of Deceit, featuring the talents of Jonah Weingarten and Nicklas Sonne, is well-crafted and entertaining, epic and bombastic, symphonic power metal. Rhapsody Of Fire need to watch their backs. Recommended.

Support the artist, click the link below to buy the album at Amazon (US site) in your favorite format.

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The Powell Payne project, created in 2022 is the collaboration of Mark "Penfold Powell (ex-drummer of Psycho Kiss) and Adam Payne (former vocalist of Airrace). With guitarist Adam Davies and keyboard player ... [ Read More ]

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