Metalite can be regarded as old hands now when it comes to producing the type of slick, pop-infused power metal that appeals to the mass market – and new album “Expedition One” (which was released on 19th January 2024) is absolutely no exception. As the artwork would tend to suggest, the project is mostly a vehicle for the beautifully talented lead vocalist Erica Ohlsson, and there is little doubt in our minds that she acts as the biggest drawcard for audiences to embark on this galactic space voyage. But in any event, we strongly recommend that you buckle up and prepare for launch, because the Swedish metallers are ready to blast off, and you definitely don’t want to miss out on this journey.
Before the countdown commences, let’s quickly meet the rest of the crew. In addition to Erica Ohlsson at the helm, the band’s lineup consists of Edwin Premberg (Guitars), Robert Örnesved (Guitars), Robert Majd (Bass), and Lea Larsson (Drums). The five-piece outfit has fortunately remained unchanged since 2019’s “Biomechanicals”, so you can rest assured that this expedition is in extremely safe and capable hands. Although you should still expect a reasonable amount of turbulence, and this is clear within seconds of the opening title track “Expedition One”, which joyfully propels you into the album with an abundance of G-force and kinetic energy. Listeners are thrust into outer space as the protagonists in the story leave behind their dead planet: “We’re looking back through the frozen glass // The earth we know has turned to stone pitched black”
Metalite clearly have plenty of propellent in the tank too, as this energy level is maintained into the next track “Aurora”. The pumping tempo even kicking into overdrive at a certain point, as if the band have just punched the ship into hyperspace. They serve up a flurry of other smash-hits in quick succession as well, including the previously released headbangers “Blazing Skies”, “New Generation”, and “Disciples of the Stars”. Sandwiched between these monster arena anthems is the unassuming “In My Dreams”, which provides a rare occasion for the band to show off their more delicate side, and ease back on the throttle. It’s all very slickly produced, which is no real surprise when you learn that Jacob Hansen is responsible for the mixing and mastering (Delain, Epica, Amaranthe, Arch Enemy). The choruses sound huge and multi-layered, the drumming is tight, and the guitars are suitably crunchy and high octane, with plenty of poppy synths and keyboard effects adding to the overall atmosphere. It’s a successful combination, and one that Metalite rarely deviates from. Even a track titled “CtrlAltDel” does little to change the band’s routine function. But when the music is this good, there is really no need in the first place.
Futuristic sci-fi themes have been typical fodder for Metalite in the past, but this is the first time they have ever released a concept album. Even so, you can hear the masterful execution. Weaving a thought-provoking and visionary story across 16 tracks, which relates to humanity’s desperate struggle to find a new home amongst the stars (after being responsible for the destruction of their previous one). It is all highly topical, and at approx. 68 minutes it is a significantly lengthy exercise, but the infectiously exuberant music guarantees that there is never a boring moment. There is no discernible drop in song quality either, and I can say this because the chorus of the penultimate track “Take My Hand” has been stuck in my head for the last few days. However, the usual criticisms about Metalite’s brand of metal being too clean and pristine still apply here. Indeed, the metal on display can often be so bright and polished that it does dazzle you with its shininess at times. But assuming that’s not a problem, there is little to actually pick apart on the album, and I imagine that most people will have an amazingly stellar time with it.
Verdict: Whether this is your first expedition with Metalite or not, “Expedition One” is destined to surprise and delight in equal measure. It’s a lengthier ride than some fans might be used to, but the album is always lively and entertaining enough that it will never put you into stasis. A cosmic splendour, and a powerful way to launch into 2024!