Illuminata- Where Stories Unfold (2015)

I first came across Illuminata when i heard "A Word So Cold" but lets just say i was less than impressed back then. While the packaging and talant was there i just didnt think there was any real cohesive direction with the song arrangements and execution. The album for me just came across as a run of the mill symphonic/gothic record.

However, 4 years later the band has grown immensely since then and with "Where Stories Unfold" the band has the focus, energy, and vision to put together a quality record to try and separate themselves from the pack. The songs are more fluent and embody the atmosphere they are trying to achieve with far more success this time around. The band hails out of Austria and features musicians Luki Knoebl on guitars, Sabrina Supan on keyboards, Christoph Vide on bass, Tom Kern on drums, and the lovely vocal work of
Katarzyna Neiniewska.

With the new record the band has taken a giant step forward with massive appeal and great story telling. The overall feel and vibe is one that would fit any epic fantasy film. The music resonates with authority and would certainly rival bands like Nightwish, Epica, and Factory of Dreams. Illuminata have conquered and achieved with dramatic ability which are showcased on songs like "Violets Compass", "Arbitrary Asylum", "The Brass Ring" (my favorite), and "Danse Macabre".

The use of the orchestra is perfect giving the band a cinematic mood inducing feeling for the listener. For a independent band Illuminata, they have gone all out and the work has seemed to pay off dividends for them here. The band has taken the talent they have and have showcased it all with impressive and complex brilliance. While it is extremely difficult for bands to set themselves apart, i mean lets face it, bands like Within Temptation, the aforementioned Nightwish and Epica have already basically cornered this particular market. But, if you are a band that can put out quality work and not simply ride the coattails of already established bands than you can most certainly make a name for yourself which Illuminata is starting to do here.

While the band isnt quite on the level as the more well known acts Illuminata are getting there and this record is a great step forward in establishing themselves as a real contender. I am eager to hear more from them going forward and if you are a fan of this genre than "Where Stories Unfold" is a must pickup for you.


1. A Story Unfolds
2. Eternity Of Today
3. Violets Compass
4. Arbitrary Asylum
5. White Heart
6. Phoenix
7. The Brass Ring
8. Entwined
9. Danse Macabre
10. The Phantom Rickshaw
11. The World Constructor

Genre: Symphonic/Gothic Metal
Rating: 8/10