Mantra is a French band offering Progressive Rock and Metal sounds with intense songs and refined storytelling. Their new project entitled “Celestial” is spread over four albums named after the seasons. The first chapter, entitled “Celestial: Fall” was released on September 22, 2024 and contains 3 tracks between 5 and 7 minutes long. The opener “Messenger” is also the longest in duration, clocking in at over seven minutes, immediately immersing us in the band’s sounds. A granitic and elaborate rhythm section, enriched by the continuous tempo changes that allow the song’s theme to evolve, good guitar work and a vocal that alternates choral passages and verses with an incisive male vocal. The interweaving of Progressive Rock and Metal with fresh and modern traits is well accomplished, developing the song well by alternating intense vocal and instrumental parts. “Illumination” opens with guitar arpeggios and solid, elaborate drumming over which a warm, expressive vocal is inserted. the atmospheres are darker than in the previous track, incorporating softer, symphonic elements into the sound in the middle section. The instrumental section is interesting, developing the track with a more Rock touch, accompanying us to the finale with dreamy atmospheres and refined melodies. The album ends with “Premonition,” characterised by a guitar intro enriched by effects, before developing into an elaborate modern-sounding prog track. After a first part closer to Rock sounds, in the second part the band experiments and incorporates symphonic keyboard sounds that accompany us in a long instrumental section that concludes the album. This first part of the project is interesting, offering a well-composed and executed blend of Progressive Rock and modern Metal sounds. The tracklist is well constructed with 3 tracks exploring the different influences that characterise the band’s personal style. A recommended listen for all lovers of modern progressive sounds, confirming the good things heard on previous releases.
Tracklist
01. Fall I – “Messenger” (07:01)
02. Fall II – “Illumination” (04:47)
03. Fall III – “Premonition” (04:59)
Lineup
Gabriel Junod / Drums, Percussions
Pierre Junod / Vocals
Arthur Lauth / Bass Guitar
Simon Saint-Georges / Guitar
Additional vocals by Juliette & Matthis Lemonnier
