Originating from Syria and now based in the Netherlands, Ambrotype has emerged as one of the most compelling voices in the modern Progressive scene, known for their unique blend of Progressive Rock and Metal with deep emotional resonance and a cinematic scope. Following the release of “The Revelations,” the band has continued its conceptual journey with “The Colours of Darkness Vol. II,” a new chapter that explores the inner workings of trauma, its unconscious roots, and its vivid expressions in altered states of perception. As described by the band themselves, this is a collection of “surrealist sonic journeys” that seeks to enrich the listener’s understanding of “the craziness, lucidity, blissfulness, and kaleidoscopic states” we all experience within a shared universal consciousness. The album was released on May 05, 2025 and contains four long tracks, among which an epic over 16 minutes long stands out. With this new release, Ambrotype have clearly refined their sound and compositional approach, striking a fine balance between complexity and accessibility, darkness and light, aggression and introspection. Let us take a journey through the album’s four tracks, each revealing a different shade of their musical identity. The opening track, “Drift Apart”, immediately sets the tone of the album, drawing the listener into its intricate and ever-evolving sonic landscape. The piece unfolds around a central thematic core that is continuously transformed through subtle shifts in mood and structure. One of the most striking aspects is the interplay between male and female vocals, used not simply as contrasts but as complementary forces enhancing the narrative and emotional weight of the music. The guitar work is prominent and rich in texture, standing at the forefront of the instrumental passages, while the rhythm section proves to be both solid and technically sophisticated. Musically, the band navigates through modern Progressive Metal with seamless detours into more Technical territories reminiscent of Opeth—albeit without the use of keyboards in certain sections. The lyrical and vocal elements heighten the track’s emotional impact, dealing with themes of fragility, introspection, and dissolution, all conveyed through thoughtful songwriting. “The One Who Drowned” opens with a dreamy, delicate atmosphere and a warm, expressive vocal delivery. This track showcases the band’s more introspective side, weaving together melodic guitar lines and tasteful keyboard textures. The rhythm section again shines with intricate yet fluid patterns, allowing the piece to develop a retro-tinged Progressive Rock aura. There are clear nods to classic acts like Yes, but these references are filtered through a modern sensibility that keeps the song fresh and engaging. The central instrumental section ventures into Experimental territory with Ambient nuances and unorthodox rhythmic patterns, only to evolve in its second half into a heavier, more dynamic expression incorporating elements of Heavy Prog and Technical Death Metal. The result is a layered composition that manages to stay cohesive while traversing multiple genres and emotional states. The centerpiece of the album is the 16-minute “Smile Corrosion”, a true epic suite that encapsulates Ambrotype’s artistic ambitions. The track begins with a lengthy atmospheric introduction, built on dynamic and melodic motifs that gradually lead into more complex Progressive Rock terrain. Throughout its duration, the band demonstrates a mature command of structure and storytelling, unfolding a musical narrative that explores their full range of influences and abilities. Each passage is meticulously crafted, offering shifts in tempo, tone, and intensity that never feel forced or disconnected. The suite features symphonic expansions, deeply engaging instrumental interludes, and moments of almost meditative calm before diving back into technical or emotionally charged sections. It is both a showcase of the band’s compositional prowess and an immersive experience for the listener. Without a doubt, “Smile Corrosion” stands as one of the strongest and most memorable tracks in the contemporary Progressive scene — an intricate, personal, and evocative journey that rewards multiple listens. Following this emotional peak, the closing track “The Witness” opens with a dreamlike guitar arpeggio that soon evolves into a dynamic and modern Progressive Rock piece. The song grows in intensity as it progresses, enriching the listener’s experience with refined interactions between instrumental sections and vocal lines. Once again, Ambrotype displays their talent for developing thematic content over time, allowing the track to breathe and build naturally toward its conclusion. It serves as a fitting end to the record, leaving the listener with a sense of closure yet encouraging future revisits. With “The Colours of Darkness Vol. II,” Ambrotype not only confirm the high quality of their previous works but also establish a mature, original, and recognizable identity. The album showcases a well-crafted mix of modern Progressive Rock and Metal, with occasional forays into Technical Death Metal, though the core remains firmly rooted in Prog Rock. The expressive vocals, detailed arrangements, and accessible complexity of the instrumental sections make this album an essential listen for anyone interested in the genre’s contemporary evolution. In a scene often torn between tradition and innovation, Ambrotype manages to embrace both, creating music that is both respectful of the past and boldly forward-thinking. “The Colours of Darkness Vol. II” is a vivid, multi-dimensional album that blends intellect and emotion, structure and spontaneity — a clear statement of vision and purpose from a band that deserves close attention. Highly recommended.
Tracklist
01. Drift Apart (08:58)
02. The One Who Drowned (08:30)
03. Smile Corrosion (16:16)
04. The Witness (08:13)
Lineup
Adel Saflou / Guitar, Vocals, and Songwriting
Jawdat Atasi / Guitar and Backing Vocals
David Klompmakers / Bass
Paskal Schouten / Drums
Suzanne Wilgenhof / Backing Vocals