Leaves’ Eyes – Song Of Darkness

Leaves’ Eyes
Song Of Darkness
Label: RPM (Reigning Phoenix Music)
Out: 6^th March 2026
Playing time: 16:33

I have known Leaves’ Eyes for many years and have closely followed their development. For years, the band played thrilling Nordic Metal. Many Viking stories were told. For several years now, the musicians around the vocal duo Elina Siirala / Alexander Krull have turned more towards Symphonic Metal. These two have also been the only constants in the band for years. The band’s latest album, “Myths Of Fate”, was released two years ago. Now an EP with four songs is being released, probably to shorten the waiting time until the next full-length album.

At the beginning of “Song Of Darkness,” singer Elina Siirala whispers briefly before letting her crystal-clear soprano voice fill the air. After a quiet introduction, guitars and drums kick in. However, the tempo hardly increases. A great Symphonic Metal anthem. “Hall Of The Brave” initially spreads a Celtic Folk vibe. The rhythm section provides plenty of heaviness. Band founder and mastermind Alexander Krull lets out some evil growls. Strings and epic sounds can be heard at the beginning of “Until The Last Day.” Alexander’s growls are ever-present and form a strong contrast to Elina’s vocals and the epic choruses that are sprinkled throughout. The EP concludes with the contemplative ballad “Roots Eternal.” Elina enchants the listener one last time with her outstanding voice.

Seductive soprano vocals, evil growls, hard riffs, epic orchestrations and choruses, powerful guitar solos. Actually, everything that makes excellent Symphonic Metal is present. But somehow, I feel something is missing – the charm of the Nordic flair of earlier years. The press release describes the sound as “a breathtaking brew of classical perfection and emotional energy”. Many bands in this genre can only dream of such exuberant soundscapes. But for me, it leaves a slightly bland aftertaste. I miss the emotional and deep musical immersion in the mysticism of the Nordic countries a little.

Leaves’ Eyes – Song Of Darkness: https://youtu.be/KFiVewn7B7U?si=RXkliDrdyHbn8koA

Lineup:

Elina Siirala – Vocals
Alexander Krull – Vocals
Florian Ewert – Guitar
Luc Gebhardt – Guitar
Dominik Prykiel – Bass
Simon Skrlec – Drums

Track list:

• Song Of Darkness
• Hall Of The Brave
• Until The Last Day
• Roots Eternal