Vola | Friend Of A Phantom Review

by Griff Stevens

The Danish-Swedish progressive metal band Vola has always existed in a unique musical space where heavy riffs coexist with atmospheric synths and catchy melodies. Their sound is an intricate mix of the brutal and the beautiful, a sonic journey that challenges and rewards the listener. With Friend Of A Phantom, Vola continues their exploration of genre boundaries, building on the success of their critically acclaimed album, Witness. This latest release finds the band more mature in songwriting as their sound remains true to their eclectic, groove-driven roots. Lyrically, the band dives into themes of melancholy and personal introspection.

It has been three years since the release of Witness, and now Vola has returned with an album that showcases their signature blend of memorable riffs and thoughtful, labyrinthine narratives, now enriched by even greater emotional depth. The Copenhagen-based quartet—featuring Asger Mygind on vocals and guitar, Martin Werner on keys, Nicolai Mogensen on bass, and Adam Janzi on drums—combine elements of progressive metal, electronica, and alt-rock to create something that speaks to today’s metal fan. Friend Of A Phantom captures the journey of growth and transformation, shaped by the experiences and reflections the band has undergone over recent years.

“Cannibal (Feat. Anders Fridén)” will make an immediate impact with its engaging groove complemented by Mygind’s graceful vocals. The guest appearance by Anders Fridén of IN FLAMES adds an extra layer of aggression, with his harsh vocals providing a powerful contrast to Mygind’s melodic delivery. The chorus exemplifies Vola’s success in blending forceful energy with an ethereal ambiance.

“Break My Lying Tongue” is a perfect example of Vola’s mastery of dynamics. It introduces enticing electronic elements that intertwine with the heavy, tech-metal riffs. The transitions between the subtle, atmospheric verses and the crushingly heavy choruses are executed flawlessly, and the shift in dynamics makes “Break My Lying Tongue” an addictive listen that keeps the listener on their toes.

One of the standout moments on the album, “Paper Wolf,” is a high-energy track that features some of the most irresistible riffs on Friend Of A Phantom. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it an instant favorite, with an anthemic quality that seems tailor-made for live performances. The combination of intricate guitar work by Mygind and a lighters-in-the-air chorus, colored by Werner’s keys, creates a memorable experience that is further driven home by Janzi’s and Mogensen’s groove beneath it all.

Closing out the album, “Tray” offers a beautiful concoction of soaring synths and haunting melodies. The track encapsulates the album’s emotional journey, providing a sense of uplifting and introspective closure. The interplay between the synth-driven atmosphere and Mygind’s heartfelt vocals makes “Tray” a fitting and refreshing conclusion, leaving the listener with a sense of hope and resolution.

Vola has always been known for blending heavy and melodic elements seamlessly, and Friend Of A Phantom is no exception. Janzi’s drumming stands out across the album, particularly on tracks like “I Don’t Know How We Got Here,” where his intricate rhythms add depth with an unstoppable groove to the song’s emotional narrative. Mogensen’s bass and Mygind’s guitar work are tightly interwoven, creating a dense and textured soundscape that is further enriched by Werner’s synth lines. The production is polished yet retains a sense of rawness, allowing each instrument to shine while contributing to the overall cohesiveness of the album.

Mygind’s vocals are a highlight throughout the album. His ability to move between hauntingly delicate melodies and powerful, soaring choruses adds a dynamic layer to Vola’s sound. The interplay between his clean vocals and Anders Fridén’s harsher growls on “Cannibal” is particularly effective, showcasing the range of vocal textures that Vola can achieve. Mygind’s vocal delivery is emotionally resonant and technically impressive, perfectly complementing the instrumental power of the album.

The songwriting on Friend Of A Phantom is intricate and layered, with each track offering something unique. Vola excels at crafting songs that are both complex and accessible, using dynamic shifts and unexpected transitions to keep the listener engaged. The band’s ability to blend prog-rock, electronica, and metal elements into cohesive compositions is a testament to their growth as musicians and songwriters.

The lyrics on Friend Of A Phantom delve into themes of melancholy, introspection, and resilience. Tracks like “We Will Not Disband” and “I Don’t Know How We Got Here” explore the struggles of change and personal growth, with poetic imagery that invites the listener to reflect on their own experiences. Vola’s lyrics are abstract yet deeply personal, creating a connection that feels intimate and universal.

The album’s emotional weight is palpable, with Vola effectively using contrasts between heavy riffs and synths to evoke a wide range of emotions. The balance between aggression and tenderness is a defining feature of the album, making it an emotionally rich listening experience. The melancholic undertones that permeate the album are balanced by moments of hope and uplift, creating a dynamic emotional journey.

Friend Of A Phantom is a welcome sound within the progressive metal landscape. Their blending of genres creates a sound that is accessible to a wide audience of peers. Comparisons to bands like Leprous, TesseracT, and Haken are inevitable, but Vola’s fusion of electronic elements with heavy riffs and melodic hooks gives them a distinct identity.

Friend Of A Phantom is a strong album with high replay value. The excellent production quality and the band’s ability to balance complexity with accessibility make this album a standout in their discography. While the album’s heavier tracks shine, some of the slower cuts may feel less impactful. There are moments where the experimental elements could have been pushed further to add even more variety. However, these are minor critiques in an otherwise impressive body of work.

Friend Of A Phantom is a significant chapter in Vola’s discography. It is an album that rewards repeated listens, revealing new layers with each playthrough. Existing fans will find much to love, and newcomers will discover a compelling gateway into the world of Vola. This album reaffirms Vola’s position as one of the most exciting bands in today’s progressive metal scene.