Cry of Dawn | Anthropocene Review

Anthropocene: A Melodic Journey Through Time and Talent.

by Griff Stevens

Cry of Dawn’s sophomore album Anthropocene offers a richly layered journey through the realms of Melodic Rock and AOR, led by the seasoned talents of Swedish singer Göran Edman and multi-instrumentalist Tommy Denander.

The ten-track compilation merges the distinct capabilities of Edman’s sweeping vocal range and Denander’s masterful instrumentation, delivering an album that is technically proficient and steeped in a musical ethos reminiscent of the genre’s glory days. However, it also becomes apparent that Anthropocene, while steadfastly anchored in its genre, remains content within the boundaries of its musical landscape.

One of the standout qualities of Anthropocene is Edman’s vocal performance. His powerful delivery on tracks such as “Devils Highway,” “Before You Grow Old,” and “Sign of the Times” showcases his command over melodic rock vocals. His ability to hit high notes, particularly on “A Million Years of Freedom,” further exemplifies his vocal prowess. The layered vocal arrangements, both tasteful and textured, further amplify the auditory experience, creating an immersive soundscape that is both nostalgic and contemporary.

Denander’s musicianship is another pillar upon which Anthropocene is built. His multi-faceted skills are best exhibited on tracks like “Before You Grow Old,” “Sign of the Times,” “High and Low” and “A Million Years of Freedom.” Denander’s guitar parts are catchy and vibrant, characterized by a warm distortion that enhances the overall sound. The thumping bass and supportive keyboards further solidify the album’s robust sonic framework. His versatility is highlighted in “End of the World,” where his keyboard and guitar adeptness shines.

However, while the album showcases the skillsets of these talented artists, it seems to be missing standout tracks that push the boundaries of the genre. The songs are finely crafted, offering consistent quality, but they often feel safe and predictable. This restricts Anthropocene from breaking free from its peers and standing out but is still an evolution from their first project.

In conclusion, Anthropocene pays homage to the glory days of AOR/Melodic Rock, intertwining the best of Edman’s vocal range and Denander’s instrumental talent. The album’s relevance in our era of significant human impact on Earth adds a thoughtful dimension. Despite the call for more risk-taking tracks, Anthropocene remains a meticulously constructed homage to the genre and a testament to the considerable talents of its creators.

Anthropocene

Release Date: May 19, 2023

Label: Frontiers Records

About the author

Griff Stevens