Discover the Audio Magic of Sonata Arctica's 'Closer To An Animal': A Must-Hear for Prog Metal Fans

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Sonata Arctica fans are in for a treat as the Finnish rock band drops their latest single Closer To An Animal. The song is the lead single from their upcoming album, which is set to be released later this year. The band, known for their unique blend of power metal and progressive rock, has been teasing their fans with snippets of the new record on social media, but the wait is finally over.

So what sets Closer To An Animal apart from the band's previous releases? For one, the track has a much more straightforward structure compared to their more complex songs in the past. It also features a catchy chorus that is sure to get stuck in your head after just one listen.

The song opens with a haunting piano melody that builds up into a powerful guitar riff. Vocalist Tony Kakko's soaring vocals then take center stage, delivering lyrics that explore the themes of self-discovery and primal instincts. The instrumentation remains tight throughout the track, with each member of the band contributing to the song's epic sound.

But don't just take our word for it. Since its release, Closer To An Animal has received rave reviews from critics and fans alike. As of this writing, the song has garnered over 300,000 views on YouTube and has been streamed millions of times across various music platforms.

But what really makes the song stand out is its ability to evoke a wide array of emotions. From melancholy to euphoria, Closer To An Animal takes listeners on a journey that is both introspective and exhilarating. It's no wonder why the track has quickly become a fan favorite.

For those who are unfamiliar with Sonata Arctica, Closer To An Animal serves as the perfect introduction to the band's signature sound. It showcases their technical prowess and unique approach to songwriting, while still being accessible enough for new listeners to enjoy.

And speaking of accessibility, the band's decision to release the song as a single is a smart move. With streaming services and digital downloads becoming more popular than ever, it's important for artists to capture their audience's attention with a standout track. And Closer To An Animal certainly fits that bill.

Overall, Closer To An Animal proves that Sonata Arctica is still at the top of their game. The song is a testament to the band's dedication to their craft and their ability to evolve while still staying true to their roots. So what are you waiting for? Give the track a listen and get ready to be blown away.

Are you a fan of progressive rock? How about power metal? If you answered yes to either of those questions, then Sonata Arctica's latest single Closer To An Animal is sure to be right up your alley. With its catchy chorus and powerful instrumentation, the song is a must-listen for anyone who loves epic rock anthems.

But even if you're not typically a fan of the genre, Closer To An Animal is worth a listen. Its introspective lyrics and emotional depth make it a standout track that is sure to resonate with listeners of all backgrounds. So why not give it a try?

And if you do find yourself hooked on the song, be sure to check out Sonata Arctica's other albums. From their earlier, more metal-oriented material to their more recent, progressive-inspired work, the band has something for everyone.

So what are you waiting for? Add Closer To An Animal to your playlist and get ready to experience one of the best rock songs of the year.


Sonata Arctica Closer To An Animal

Sonata Arctica’s latest album “Closer To An Animal” is a powerful and exciting addition to their already impressive collection of music. With 11 tracks, the album starts with “Closer To An Animal” which sets the perfect tone for the rest of the album. The music is heavy and hard-hitting, but still melodic and emotional.

The Production

The production on this album is outstanding. The sound is clear and polished, but still has that raw edge that metal fans will love. The guitars, bass, and drums all sound amazing, but it's the vocals that really stand out. Tony Kakko’s voice is in peak form, hitting all the right notes and conveying the emotion of the lyrics perfectly.

The Lyrics

The lyrics on “Closer To An Animal” are deeply personal and introspective. The themes of self-discovery, loneliness, and isolation are prevalent throughout the album. Each song tells a story and is filled with poetic imagery that will resonate with listeners on a profound level.

The Stand Out Tracks

While every song on the album is excellent, there are a few that stand out in particular. “Life” is an epic and emotional ballad that showcases Kakko’s incredible vocal range. “Fairytale” is a fast-paced and energetic track that is sure to get fans moshing in the pits. Another standout track is “Among The Shooting Stars,” which features a stunning guitar solo and some of the best lyrics on the album.

The Overall Sound

The overall sound of “Closer To An Animal” is a fusion of different sub-genres of metal. There are elements of power metal, progressive metal, and even some symphonic metal thrown in for good measure. The result is a unique blend that sets Sonata Arctica apart from other metal bands.

The Verdict

In conclusion, “Closer To An Animal” is a must-listen for any fan of metal music. The production, lyrics, and overall sound are all top-notch, making this one of Sonata Arctica’s best albums yet. The band has taken their sound to new heights with this release, and it's sure to be a classic in the metal genre for years to come.


Sonata Arctica: Comparing Closer To An Animal with Previous Releases

Introduction:

Sonata Arctica is a Finnish power metal band that has gained a strong foothold in the genre over the past two decades. Their unique sound, blending melodic keyboards and fast-paced guitar riffs with Tony Kakko's soaring vocals, has kept fans coming back album after album. In this article, we'll take a closer look at their latest release, Closer To An Animal, and compare it with previous releases from the band.

The Sound of Closer To An Animal:

Closer To An Animal was released in 2016 and saw Sonata Arctica lean further into their progressive side. The album takes a slower pace than some of their earlier work, but still maintains the emotional intensity that the band is known for. The title track is a standout, with its sweeping chorus and delicate piano intro. Kakko's vocal delivery throughout the album is powerful, particularly on tracks like Fairytale and Among The Shooting Stars.

Previous Albums: Reckoning Night:

Before diving into Closer To An Animal, it's worth looking back at one of Sonata Arctica's most beloved albums: Reckoning Night. This 2004 release remains a fan favorite and showcases the band's ability to create intricate and varied songs. Tracks like Don't Say A Word and Blinded No More are masterpieces of power metal, highlighting the keyboard-driven melodies that have become synonymous with Sonata Arctica.

The Writing Process:

One aspect that sets Closer To An Animal apart from previous releases is the writing process. Kakko has stated that he wrote most of the album while walking his dog, which encouraged a more improvisational approach. While the result is undeniably different from previous releases, it's a direction that has paid off. The songwriting on Closer To An Animal flows naturally and is often unpredictable, keeping listeners on their toes.

Previous Albums: Ecliptica:

For many fans, Sonata Arctica's debut album Ecliptica remains the gold standard of the band's sound. Released in 1999, it's an energetic blast of power metal with soaring vocals and lightning-fast guitars. Tracks like FullMoon and Blank File remain fan favorites for their catchy melodies and impressive musicianship.

The Role of the Keyboard:

One aspect that hasn't changed over the years for Sonata Arctica is the prominent role of the keyboard in their music. Whether it's the driving force behind a track or simply adding atmospheric textures, the keyboard is always a crucial part of the band's sound. On Closer To An Animal, this is particularly evident in songs like Life and The Elephant.

Previous Albums: Winterheart's Guild:

Another standout album in Sonata Arctica's discography is Winterheart's Guild. Released in 2003, it showcases the band's growth as songwriters and musicians. Tracks like Victoria's Secret and Gravenimage feature complex arrangements and intricate playing, while still retaining the melodic sensibility that drew fans to the band in the first place.

The Production:

Another factor that sets Closer To An Animal apart from some of the band's earlier work is the production. This latest release sounds lush and detailed, with each instrument clearly audible in the mix. Previous albums like Silence and Successor have a more lo-fi feel, with a focus on raw energy over slick production values.

Previous Albums: Unia:

One of the band's most divisive releases is Unia, which saw them experiment with a more avant-garde sound. This 2007 album features complex structures and unconventional songwriting, and can take multiple listens to fully appreciate. It strays further from power metal conventions than most of the band's other work, and is often viewed as one of their riskier releases.

The Future of Sonata Arctica:

So where does Closer To An Animal fit in with Sonata Arctica's future plans? The band is currently working on a new album, which promises to be another step forward in their evolution. While Closer To An Animal saw them explore their prog side, the next release may see them revisit their power metal roots. Whatever direction they choose, it's clear that Sonata Arctica remains a force to be reckoned with in the world of metal.

Final Thoughts:

When comparing Closer To An Animal with previous releases from Sonata Arctica, it's clear that the band has evolved significantly over the years. While some fans may prefer their earlier, more straightforward power metal work, there's no denying the skill and creativity that went into this latest release. Closer To An Animal showcases a band still willing to take risks and explore new sounds, even after two decades in the industry.

Get Closer to Sonata Arctica's Closer to an Animal

Sonata Arctica is a Finnish power metal band that has been active since 1996. Their music is characterized by fast-paced, melodic riffs and soaring vocals. One of their recent singles, Closer to an Animal, has garnered plenty of attention from fans and music critics alike. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the song and what makes it so special.

The Music

Closer to an Animal starts off with a haunting, atmospheric intro before the guitars kick in and the drums take over. The verse section is relatively subdued compared to the rest of the song, which allows vocalist Tony Kakko to showcase his range and emotive delivery. The chorus is where the song really takes off, with soaring melodies and a powerful, anthemic feel.

The Lyrics

The lyrics of Closer to an Animal are open to interpretation, but they seem to deal with themes of isolation and belonging. The chorus features the memorable refrain, I'm closer to an animal, wild and free, which could be seen as a call to embrace one's primal instincts.

The Vocals

Tony Kakko's vocals are one of the defining factors of Sonata Arctica's music. He has an incredibly versatile voice that can handle both delicate ballads and high-energy anthems. In Closer to an Animal, he delivers a passionate performance that perfectly matches the intensity of the music.

The Instrumentation

The rest of the band is no slouch either. The guitar work of Elias Viljanen and Henrik Klingenberg's keyboard playing add layers of texture and depth to the song. The rhythm section of bassist Pasi Kauppinen and drummer Tommy Portimo provide tight, propulsive grooves that keep the song driving forward.

The Production

Closer to an Animal was produced by Sonata Arctica themselves, with mixing and mastering handled by Pasi Kauppinen. The production is crisp and clear, with every instrument balanced just right in the mix. The guitars have plenty of crunch, the keyboard tones are lush and atmospheric, and the drums hit hard without overpowering everything else.

The Music Video

The music video for Closer to an Animal is a surreal and visually stunning affair. It features a mix of live-action footage and animation, with Tony Kakko playing a mysterious character wandering through a fantastical landscape. The video does a great job of capturing the epic, otherworldly feel of the song.

How to Play It

If you're a musician and want to learn how to play Closer to an Animal, there are plenty of resources available online. You can find guitar tabs, bass tabs, and sheet music for the song with a quick Google search. There are also plenty of tutorials on YouTube that can guide you through the various parts of the song.

What Makes It Stand Out

So what is it that makes Closer to an Animal such a standout song? For one thing, it's a great showcase of everything that makes Sonata Arctica such a beloved band. The soaring melodies, driving rhythms, and powerful vocals all come together to create a truly epic listening experience.

Conclusion

Overall, Closer to an Animal is a must-listen for anyone who loves melodic metal. It's a perfect example of what Sonata Arctica does best, and a great introduction to the band if you're not already familiar with their music. Whether you're a fan or a newcomer, this song is sure to leave an impression.

Closer To An Animal: A Must-Listen Album by Sonata Arctica

Sonata Arctica has established themselves as one of the most influential power metal bands since their debut in the late 1990s. With their energetic and uplifting music, they have amassed a huge following around the world. Following their 2014 album, 'Pariah's Child', Sonata Arctica further solidified their place in the music world with their newest release, 'Closer To An Animal'.

The album features 11 new tracks that are every bit as epic and exciting as their previous works. From the catchy and melodic first single 'Closer to an Animal', to the explosive and guitar-heavy 'Fairytale', this album showcases all of the band's signature strengths.

One of the standout tracks on the album is 'Life'. The song has a powerful message that encourages listeners to appreciate the beauty of life, no matter how hard things may get. The chorus is particularly moving, with singer Tony Kakko's soaring vocals leading the way over the thundering drums and driving guitar riffs.

'In The Other Side' also stands out, showcasing the band's softer side. This is truly a beautiful ballad that will leave you emotional and feeling connected. With its touching lyrics and emotive delivery, it's undoubtedly one of the great slow tracks that the band has recorded and marks a turning point for the album.

Another favorite is 'The Elephant', with its lively and rhythmical beats. The track features driving drums, powerful guitar riffs, and an anthemic chorus, which all combine to make a massive sound. The song uses the metaphor of an elephant wandering through the city to represent the feeling of being different from everyone else; the message is clear and relatable.

The first track of the album, 'Closer to an Animal', sets the perfect tone for the entire record. The music starts off with a heavy guitar riff, accompanied by infectious melodies before Tony's wonderful vocals kick in with a verse that will leave you hooked instantly. That identifiable, expressive keyboard sound the band is known for adds a fantastic atmosphere to the track.

The instrumentation on the album is top-notch. As always, the band delivers their signature sound mixed with excellence. They manage to blend classic rock sounds with futuristic melodies and seamlessly fuse it with a robust heavy-metal punch.

'Closer To An Animal' showcases Sonata Arctica's versatility and evolution as a band while keeping themselves true to their origins as a melodic power metal group. This album has something for everyone, and with every listen, it grows on you even more.

Overall, 'Closer To An Animal' is worth taking a listen to. It's full of amazing music, lyrics, and boundless energy. So, give it a shot and let the intense depth of the album engulf you.

Thanks for reading guys, we hope this review helped you decide whether Sonata Arctica's 'Closer To An Animal' deserves a spot in your playlist or not. Let us know what you think of the album in the comments section below. We'd love to hear your thoughts!


People Also Ask About Sonata Arctica Closer To An Animal

What is the meaning behind the song Closer to an Animal?

Closer to an Animal is a song that explores the idea of questioning one's own humanity and the instincts and behaviors that can make someone feel more animalistic.

What kind of music genre is this song?

Sonata Arctica is known for its unique blend of power metal and symphonic metal, and Closer to an Animal is no exception. The song features heavy guitar riffs and dramatic orchestration that are typical of the band's style.

What album is Closer to an Animal featured on?

Closer to an Animal is the first track on Sonata Arctica's ninth studio album, The Ninth Hour. The album was released in 2016 and received positive reviews from both fans and critics.

What is the message of Closer to an Animal?

The song's message is about embracing our primal instincts and connecting with our animalistic side in order to better understand ourselves and the world around us. It encourages listeners to let go of societal expectations and rules, and to instead embrace their true nature.

Has Sonata Arctica performed Closer to an Animal live?

Yes, Sonata Arctica has performed Closer to an Animal live at many of their concerts since the release of The Ninth Hour. Fans rave about the energy and emotion that the band brings to the stage during this powerful song.

Are there any music videos for Closer to an Animal?

Yes, Sonata Arctica released a music video for Closer to an Animal in 2016. The video features stunning visuals and evokes the song's themes of nature, humanity, and animalistic instincts.