MOONLIGHT HAZE – Lunaris

Strong Folk Melodies in Symphonic Power Metal

The 2nd album from Northern Italian Symphonic Metal band Moonlight Haze captures an almost mystical feel with Lunaris. Fronted by former Temperance vocalist Chiara Tricarico, with Marco Falanga and Alberto Melinato on Guitars, Alessandro Jacobi (also of Elvenkind) on Bass and Giulio Capone on Drums, Keyboards the band has put together a well produced collection of songs that shows a level of musical maturity rare for a 2nd effort. The sound is reminiscent of one of my favorite bands Sirenia, and Lunaris grows on you with every listen.

Sweet Melodies

Founded in 2018 by Chiara Tricarico and Giulio Capone, Moonlight Haze has 10 new songs (11 if you count the English language version of Enigma) that really showcase the band’s ability to write complex songs that bring an almost medieval feel as they utilize folk melodies throughout. From the opening cut “Till the End” to the final track “Nameless City”, the band shows off their talent and precision with vocals that are stunning and keyboards that shine and shimmer over the solid rhythm section that drives the band onward.

Top Tracks

The whole album is strong, but for me the top tracks include “Enigma” (the Italian version) and “Nameless City”. There is something great about Symphonic Metal when sung in Italian that is just magical, and though they offer an English language version of “Enigma” I feel it pales in comparison much as if classic operas were converted into English. As for “Nameless City”, it is a personal favorite with the high operatic vocals and amazing songwriting. It was surprising to find such a strong song at the end of the album, but it does show that the closing of an album can be just as important as the first track when it comes to showcasing great songs.

Final Notes

From the sweet piano interludes to the beautifully sang vocals, Lunaris has more than enough great sounds for fans of Symphonic Metal. The album’s production is excellent, giving us a real treat and a worthy addition to your metal music collection. Look for a track to make an appearance in my 2020 “Top 11” show, as this album is hauntingly good, and a pure delight to behold.

Lineup

Chiara Tricarico – Vocals
Marco Falanga – Guitars
Alberto Melinato – Guitars
Alessandro Jacobi – Bass
Giulio Capone – Drums, Keyboards

Lunaris Tracklist

Till the End
The Rabbit of the Moon
Lunaris
Under Your Spell
Enigma
Wish Upon a Scar
The Dangerous Art of Overthinking
Without You
Of Birth and Death
Nameless City
Enigma (English version)