I am probably not the most patriotic person in the world, and yet here I am, reviewing another album from a band that is Italian like myself. Well, what can I do about it? Italians probably do it better. So, let’s not waste any more time and join me in this second album by Wicked Asylum called “Kintsugi”
FemMetal Rating
8/10
In a world full of unoriginal products, “Kintsugi” is like a breath of fresh air, full of innovation and yet fits perfectly in the metal world, where each band is unique.
According to Wikipedia, Kintsugi, “is the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery by mending the areas of breakage with urushi lacquer dusted or mixed with powdered gold, silver, or platinum. As a philosophy, it treats breakage and repair as part of the history of an object, rather than something to disguise.” Such a deep and profound meaning, and Wicked Asylum didn’t pass the opportunity to embed this with their fantastic music.
This album showcases a band willing to push their boundaries, experiment with diverse sounds, and display a commendable level of originality. In a music industry where many acts tend to stick to a formula, “Kintsugi” stands out for its willingness to explore uncharted territory. The album undeniably represents a step forward for Wicked Asylum: their approach to take creative risks is evident in the variety of musical elements they incorporate.
Wicked Asylum isn’t content with sticking to imposed structures, and this diversity in their musical palette keeps the listener engaged throughout the album. My personal favorite is “Walk Away“, but I dare to find someone who won’t headbang to “Song of Nothing” or “Crystallised“.
However, it’s worth noting that, in a few tracks, the sounds may seem somewhat homogenous, lacking the differentiation that could have made the album even more exceptional. It’s essential to remember that “Kintsugi” is only the band’s second album, and there is potential for growth and improvement. This homogeneity can be seen as a stepping stone, a point from which Wicked Asylum can further evolve and develop their signature sound.
In conclusion, “Kintsugi” is a release that solidifies Wicked Asylum‘s place in the music scene. It is also a bold step forward in their musical journey, and it’s a sign of exciting things to come. Fans of bands that aren’t afraid to take risks and push boundaries will find “Kintsugi” a worthwhile addition to their playlist.
