Artist: After Forever Album: Invisible Circles

Year: 2004
Duration: 59:10

A of the Album: Invisible Circles by After Forever

After Forever is a symphonic metal band from the Netherlands that was formed in 1995. They gained a considerable following due to their unique sound that combined classical music, opera, and heavy metal. In 2004, they released their fourth album, Invisible Circles, which delves into themes such as bullying, self-harm, and social isolation. In this article, we will be taking a critical look at the album, exploring the best songs, the most innovative parts, the music genre, and giving our honest opinion about Invisible Circles.
The album Invisible Circles features 13 tracks that showcase the band's distinct sound. The music genre is a combination of symphonic metal and progressive rock, which can be heard in songs such as Wings of Illusion and Digital Deceit. The album's production is excellent, and the use of the orchestra elevates the overall sound.
One of the best songs on the album is Beautiful Emptiness, which perfectly encapsulates the themes of the album. The lyrics are introspective and relatable, conveying a sense of loneliness and emptiness. The use of the choir and orchestral arrangements heightens the emotional impact of the song, creating a hauntingly beautiful experience.
Another standout song is Sins of Idealism, which features a duet between lead vocalist Floor Jansen and guest vocalist Marco Hietala from Nightwish. The song is an epic metal ballad with soaring vocals and powerful guitars. The lyrics address the temptation of idealism, warning about its dangers and encouraging listeners to embrace reality.
One of the most innovative sections of the album is the spoken word interlude in The Exile, which features a dialogue between two characters. The use of voice actors and sound effects creates a cinematic atmosphere that immerses the listener fully into the story. It's a brilliant addition to the album that adds depth and dimension to the overall concept.
However, the album is not without its flaws. Some songs on the album, such as Through Square Eyes, feel repetitive and lack the emotional depth of others. The lyrics can also come across as a bit heavy-handed, sacrificing subtlety for the sake of clarity.
Invisible Circles is a groundbreaking album that showcases After Forever's unique sound and lyrical themes. The combination of symphonic metal and progressive rock creates a dynamic and emotionally charged experience that keeps listeners engaged throughout the album. While some songs may not be as strong as others, the overall impact of the album is significant. If you're a fan of symphonic metal or progressive rock, Invisible Circles is a must-listen album that deserves a place in your music collection.