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Personnel:
Anni Kokkonen – vocals
Petri Tarvainen – vocals
Tomi Virtanen – guitars
Anssi Kinnunen – bass
Sami Ratilainen – drums
Producers: Stormbreaker, Miitri Aaltonen
Label: Backyard Sounds
Release date: September 5, 2025
Melodic metal band Stormbreaker release their debut full-length album, Enlighting. Having heard Anni Kokkonen’s powerful voice in her other project, I was excited to experience her on a full album alongside Petri Tarvainen.
On first listen, Enlighting hits hard with fast and powerful guitars, coordinated male and female vocals, and a mix of harsh and clean passages that immediately show the album’s energy and versatility.
If you’re into any of these artists, this album should be on your radar.
Enlighting has a strong flow, mixing fast, heavy tracks like “Unleash the Power,” “Femme Fatale,” and “In the Moment” with calmer, melodic songs like “The Story Never Told.” The guitars stand out with sharp riffs, solos, and harmonies that add depth while keeping the music clear and powerful. Changes in tempo and instrumental interplay make each track feel dynamic and keep the album exciting from start to finish.
The vocals on Enlighting feel like the album’s driving spirit. Petri Tarvainen and Anni Kokkonen intertwine with force and grace, moving between harsh growls and soaring cleans in a way that feels natural and alive. Anni’s voice carries a powerful, almost luminous quality on tracks like The Story Never Told and Mother Gaia, while the moments where both singers join in songs like Unleash the Power and Storm create a dynamic contrast that makes the music rich and exciting.
The strength of *Enlighting* lies not just in the performances, but in the way the songs are built and refined. Careful attention to detail is everywhere, from the pauses that heighten impact, to the extra sounds and textures that make each track distinct, to the flow of the tracklist that keeps the energy rising and falling naturally. It feels thoughtfully crafted, giving the music more depth and character with every listen.
Enlighting carries the idea of walking between dreams and reality, and the music reflects it well. The fast and heavy tracks feel like the fire of struggle, while calmer moments hint at reflection and release. It’s a concept that runs through the album without needing to be forced, tying the songs together naturally.
A strong and dynamic debut that proves Stormbreaker’s skill, creativity, and exciting potential.
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Yes! Some of the songs will make it into many playlists.
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