Barque Of Dante “Columbus” for #MetalChronicles
Band; Barque Of Dante
Title; Columbus
Country; China
Release Date; December 30th, 2023
Label: Self-Release
Format Reviewed: High-Quality Digital Recording
Barque Of Dante – “Columbus”; 20 years of an Epic Journey through the vaste of power metal.
“In the run-up to the launch of the album “The Legend of Great Wall II”, celebrate 20 years of Barque of Dante with a thrilling compilation of their greatest hits, taking you on an unforgettable epic journey through music, emotion, and the essence of their legacy” (By Elyna Steel)
Welcome to a new edition of “The Metal Chronicles”. Today we’ll delve into Barque Of Dante’s last album, “Columbus”, released on December 30th, 2023. It is a compilation of Barque Of Dante‘s greatest hits. It includes two of his first works, plus the album “The Alchemist” in its entirety, re-recorded and remixed.
Barque Of Dante is a Chinese power metal project, created in 2004 by Xien Zhiheng, guitarist. The band’s line is completed by Wang Wenjia on bass, Roberto Castiglioni, “Cas” (Argentina), on vocals, Dick Gilchrist (UK) on drums and Zhang Qing on guitars. Besides, “Columbus” features outstanding guests; Aquiles Priester (ex-Angra, Edu Falaschi, drums) on tracks 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 10; Ranthiel Soprano (vocals) on tracks 2 and 8; Steph Venditti (Vindicta Metal, vocals) on track 1; and 葉子 (Yè Zi) on track 3.
As a side note, Xien is both a professor of Art History and a painter in China.
So he picked the band’s name from one of French artist Eugène Delacroix’s paintings, “Dante’s Barque” (1822), which depicts the travesty of Dante and Virgil in the Underworld.
The first two songs of the compilation, “Columbus” and “Last Moment” belong to the debut album “Final Victory”. Now, the background of these takes is very interesting. That album was recorded and finished in 2009. But before that first version was released, the recording studio, placed in Mianyang city, was completely destroyed during one of the most devastating earthquakes in recent times, all the album’s material included. Therefore, the band was forced to record everything again in a short time, with few resources, in order to meet the record company’s deadlines. As a consequence, the technical quality of that first album was not the best. During the pandemic, Xie proposed to the other members to re-record those two tracks. The work was done, and both “Columbus” and “Last Moment” were included in this compilation album.
“Columbus” runs for 05:15. It narrates the journey of Christopher Columbus across the Atlantic, whose exploration led him to the “discovery” of America in 1492. This journey represents the search for glory, power and riches, marked by courage and uncertainty. The lyrics highlight that in the nature of every explorer, bravery is their main characteristic. Only the brave dare to venture into the unknown.
By the way, Columbus was not the first European in America. History has revealed that the Viking navigator Leif Erikson arrived in what would become North America about 500 years earlier. So the so-called “discovery” of America by Columbus – and the Spanish Crown, consequently – would be nothing more than a romantic tale. The Vikings would have been the first to arrive in America, being our first European ancestors.
This is today’s random fact that nobody asked. (Who knows, maybe I have Viking blood too and I don’t know)
As for the music, the composition feels like home. Its catchy rhythmic and melodic base evokes Rhapsody of Fire, Nocturnal Rites, Hammerfall and Luca Turilli. A familiar sound that caught me deeply. The epic speed, the diversity of transitions, the palm-mute riffs and the luminous harmonic solos tell me about ancient battles and perpetual triumphs. Besides, the surprising voice of Roberto, whose timbre and color reveals the key influence of Fabio Lione and Roy Khan, feels like a warm hug and provides a relaxing and “safe” auditory experience for my autistic nervous system.
Long story short, “Columbus” not only makes you feel at home, thanks to its familiar and iconic power metal sounds, but it also transports you to the deck of the Caravels, crossing the Atlantic with a heart full of dreams, fears and hope, testing your courage and determination to achieve your dreams.
“Last Moment” lasts 04:51. It portrays the last battle of a hero who is not afraid to face death in defense of his beliefs and his God. It is the farewell song of those who have lived surrounded by hatred, war and death, fueled by an evil that “never sleeps.” That evil goes beyond human feeling; It is an entity in itself, and it is what motivates men to hate each other, to not recognize each other as brothers beyond their differences.
I have a name for that evil entity: prejudices, for they are what lead us to fear what is different, then to demonize it, persecute it and in the worst case, to kill it.
Generic symphonic/power metal lyrics? Maybe. A good one? Of course! It is one of those lyrics that you can interpret and redefine as many times as you want, because the warrior, the hero can be anyone with a minimum of critical/reflective thinking and some metacognition.
Concerning music, the song displays a remarkable synchronicity of symphonic, melodic and power metal tinges. The intro kicks off with a dramatic atmospheric chorus and vibrant riffs. The verses include majestic polyphonic choruses that accompany the main voice, reminiscent of Epica. Meanwhile, the tonality and arrangements give strong vibes of Rhapsody’s darker songs. The rhythmic pattern is dynamic, between slower and faster throughout. The key is higher and the speed is faster in the last portion of the track, very much in the style of songs like “Power of the Dragonflame” or “Holy Thunderforce”, punching you like an adrenaline attack in the middle of Wacken Open Air, Imperium Rock Festival and the like.
All in all, “Last Moment” is an eclectic, dynamic take that integrates its elements with precision and professionalism. Its structure combines various styles of melodic metal with a narrative that some may classify as “generic power metal”– of warriors, heroes and battlefields. However, each listener can redefine the story according to their own experience. After all, we have all been heroes faced with a last day and the death of some dream, bond or situation, returning back to life with a new purpose.
The next track is the heartwarming ballad “A Divine Decision” clocking in at 04;11. This is a version from the original one of 2017, featuring Yèzǐ ( 葉子) and Roberto Castiglioni.
The themes of the song revolve around the pain of the separation, the longing, the hope and the promise of a future reunion, all seasoned with innocence, infinite love and purity. These feelings reach you deeply through the moving rendition of Roberto and Yèzǐ, whose voices beautifully compliment each other.
In passing, Yèzǐ’s voice stands out as one of the most gorgeous ones I have listened in recent times. She is Chinese, so that influence is displayed in her phrasing, her subtle vibrato and her heartfelt timbre, managing to create moments of deep emotional connection.
Something similar occurs with Roberto’s chest and head vocals, full of passion and feeling. As a result, the song turns into a true vocal ying yang: feminine and masculine energy, perfectly matched to create a sublime sonic experience.
As for its musicality, the orchestrations and arrangement are reminiscent of the ballads of Luca Turilli in its beginnings. Also, the combination of distortion-free guitar, cello, violins and flute, all magically integrated by the mind-blowing and well-performed keyboards, provide with an almost theatrical tinge, as an epic soundtrack. At times, it even reminds me of the most moving scenes from The Lord of the Rings. So the journey is heavenly.
In short, “A Divine Decision” is a moving sonic experience, crafted by a majestic melody, top-tier orchestrations and a perfect vocal duet, able to highlight and enhance the qualities of the female and male voices, achieving a balanced and sublime ride.
The next stop is “Double-Edged Sword.” This track runs for 06;14′. The two-edged sword. Applicable to many contexts and situations. Personally I interpret that Sword as the decisions and choices we make in life. Every step we take will always have a consequence. Even if we give none, one of the edges of the great Sword will touch us. In “Double Edge Sword” we are urged to choose, to decide wisely. And also to take risks, knowing that every action– even inaction— will inevitably have a reaction in the Cosmic game.
As for the music, the track has progressive orchestrations and structure.
The sounds at the beginning evoke medieval music, where the clarinet, cello and violins create an atmosphere of solemnity and nostalgia. The bridge before the verses is primarily neoclassical power metal, with harmonious riffs setting the pace over a rich rhythmic foundation. Meanwhile, the bass takes center stage in the first verses, which include female choirs while the rhythm accelerates. The musicality here powerfully echoes Kamelot and Rhapsody. The chorus is remarkably fluent, catchy and too familiar, due to Roberto’s vocals akin to master Lione. Plus, the catchy, harmonic guitar solos caused an intense frisson along my spine, evoking the riffs from Shaman’s Ritual album, one of my essentials.
There is a following bridge after the solo that really surprises. It incorporates sound elements from several, unexpected styles; flamenco music on the guitar, Brazilian tinges on the percussion and even flirts with tango thanks to a well-placed bandoneon. After that surprising bridge, the song resumes its scheme, raising the key, with Roberto singing in the dark style of Lione, and an abrupt ending.
In conclusion, the diversity and ethnicity of the instruments and sonorities incorporated, together with the several progressions in the rhythmic and vocal pattern make “Double Edge Sword” a different sound experience, rich in layers and nuances, that keeps you aware of the listen. And it also leaves you thinking about the importance of making decisions. It’s as if the song pushes you to get out of your inertia— or comfort zone, as many like to say—- and to take charge of your life regardless of the consequences. It’s like he’s whispering in your ear; “Make up your mind, no matter what it is, but make up your mind now!”.
Track number 5 is “Spread Your Wings”. This title brings me to the second track on the Temple of Shadows album “Spread Your Fire”. But don’t get it twisted. Both tracks don’t sound similar, although the track has a lot of Angra vibes, thanks to the machine-gun like and insanely precise riffs, and the luxury guest on the percussion. Yes, ladies and gentlemen. The big shot on the drums around the world, Aquiles Priester himself, is featured here.
Structured with a fast pulse, the track has a distinctive progressive power cut. The key of the theme is minor-major. That shifting gives you a vibe both somewhat somber at first, and then full of light. The overall orchestration gives the feel of a roller coaster that is greatly and gladly energized by the fast rhythm, the precision and beautiful harmony of the riffs and solos. The intriguing atmosphere of the keyboard arrangements convey even more energy, akin to the one that only good power metal can produce. Moreover,”Spread Your Wings” is a safe place for my autistic being. Angra has been part of my essence for over 30 years. So every time I find a song that has something of its sound, I treasure it deep inside me and stay with me forever.
As for the lyrics, they hit home. They talk about The awakening of the self, which begins with the Dark Night of the Soul. Throughout that process, people question everything they have learned in life. Unlearning – or unmasking, in my personal case – is a hard and painful process. On the one hand, we strip ourselves of everything we thought we were, to see and then express what we really are. On the other hand, by starting to live based on that new mindset, we risk being left alone, not being understood and disappointing those we love. So we lock ourselves in, looking for answers outside.
The ultimate goal spread on “Spread Your Wings” is daring to be unashamedly ourselves, to open our wings and fly to reach our potential by releasing ties, fears and worries. In the end, fear makes no sense, because it only takes up time and stops us from the wonderful experience of truly living, of feeling, enjoying, contemplating and loving.
“Oceans of Dreams” ensues, clocking in at 06;31’. Its theme is quite deep. It tells us about how we perceive reality and time, in addition to portraying the Oneiric world as another version of our own, and our guide, our navigation chart through life. The struggle to know how to identify the real from the unreal contrasts with the vital importance of considering dreams as tools to design our existence. Dreams and reality are two sides of the same coin. “Oceans of Dreams” also calls us to accept life as a continuous transformation where the past, present and future are echoes of a whole. We must focus our minds and hearts and direct them where our dreams take us. We should live fearlessly, because we have the power to transform reality in our favor, to live the human experience as we wish, being totally free of ties, strange or distant social rules and conventions. ¡
By the way, I mark this song as another of my favorites, because its main sound echoes my beloved Angra. In addition, it also evokes Labyrinth and Vision Divine, two of my other lifetime favorite bands, especially in the keyboard arrangements and orchestration. Its tempo is dynamic, in the style of Italian power metal, which gives it a very refreshing and even romantic vibe. The inclusion of a music box sound when the track kicks off is a smart move to anticipate the atmosphere, enriching the listening experience.
The beautiful dual harmonized riffs recall the guitar picking of Rafael Bittencourt and maestro Olaf Thorsen. The verses and pre-chorus are dynamic in vocals, tone, melody and tempo, with several interesting cuts. That dynamism contrasts with the fluid and soft chorus, although it features rich rhythmic progressions.
However, the most striking thing for me are the bridges and guitar solos, mega progressive infused. My ear appreciates it and enjoys it to the fullest, because I love progressive power!
Regarding the voice, Roberto performs impeccably, nuanced, attacking with force, and creating epic vocal harmonies. Added to this is the resemblance of his voice to Lione. I’ve repeated it several times up to this point, I know. But the resemblance of his voice to that of the Italian master is impressive.
All in all,”Oceans of Dreams” not only portrays The awakening of the Self but also urges us to create the life we want, knowing we have a guide in the oneiric world. As for the musical composition, the diversity of nuances, layers and textures are worked in such a way that, despite its complexity, the music flows smoothly, unhurriedly, and freely. ”Oceans of Dreams” is a journey full of nostalgia and familiar sounds that many will love,, including those who enjoy deep philosophical themes with a good dose of top-tier progressive metal with Brazilian and Italian tinges.
The seventh track is the epic “Legend of Gamelyn”, one of the longest on the album, with 09:44′ duration. It tells the story of Gamelyn, a character from medieval English literature, protagonist of the poem “The Tale Of Gamelyn.” It is about a young nobleman who was unjustly deprived of his inheritance by his older brother, after the death of his father. This beautiful lyric shows the struggle of the young man, who tirelessly seeks to combat the injustice and oppression he faces, with bravery and strength. At the end of the story, Gamelyn vindicates his rights and regains his place of honor as his father’s legitimate heir. Ultimately, “Legend of Gamelyn” is a story of rebellion, search for justice and resilience. Likewise, it is a call to reflect, somewhat somberly, that family ties can also be toxic, and that our worst enemy can even come from our own blood.
It is a jump-type song-work with several layers that include folk, medieval and Celtic sounds. Its melody is diverse, thanks to the incorporation of different instruments such as chirimia-type flute, subtle hornpipes, un bandoneon, violins, cello and piano. On a personal level, this combination of sounds brings me irremediably strong vibes from the Green Dragon Inn, imagining myself sitting there in the company of great friends and drinking a good beer.
In terms of structure, “Legend Of Gamelyn” is vocal and keyboard-driven, although all elements are well balanced and none trigger from the rest. Also, the song has melodic and tonal progressions, but the stable rhythm gives balance to the whole. The verses are catchy and easy to sing. Therefore, despite how extensive it is, this song is a sure card in the setlist of their live concerts.
The guitars set the pace alongside the rhythmic base, making harmonious and simple riffs, creating a happy atmosphere which evokes medieval Bards in the squares, recounting the epic exploits of the great heroes of yesteryear.
Another surprising element is the video game music vibe in one of its bridges, thanks to the combination of keyboard, xylophone and bass sounds. Finally, the beautiful polyphonic chorus that precedes the main voice towards the end of the track gives way to an outro recital, with orchestral sounds in the background and a rain effect that masterfully closes the story.
In short, “Legend of Gamelyn” flows effortlessly. Although it includes many instruments, they are integrated in such a way that it feels light and endearing. Thus, the almost 10 minutes of this Bard-like story pass almost without you realizing it, leaving you happy and hopeful, with your calm and happy heart. So, if you are in the mood of an old, great story, give this track a listen. I assure you it would be worth the time.
Our next destination is “The Alchemist”, the longest take on the album, with 13;24′ duration. In terms of its thematic, it addresses themes of self-discovery, internal struggle, and the search for redemption and liberation. It explores how difficult it is to face the past, accepting one’s own mistakes. At the same time, this retrospective look implies a search for redemption, to forgive oneself. Thus, free from guilt, we embark on the path of the Alchemist to turn “rocks into gold.” That is, the path of self-transformation, in search of something superior to material or superficial life.
Musically it is a solid song. It includes several progressive cuts that evoke Angra, Rhapsody, Luca Turilli and even Galneryus in terms of guitars and keyboards, something I really appreciate, as a fan of the Japanese masters. It starts with an emotional intro on piano, acoustic guitar and a delicate atmospheric keyboard. These elements, added to Roberto’s velvety and heartfelt vocal performance, create an intense and intimate ambience. The following interlude totally changes the vibe. The thunderous riffs mark the change in tempo, now fast, double-bass drums. It then slows at the beginning of the first verses, giving a vibe reminiscent of Kamelot in The Black Halo. The bass and keyboard stand out, while the brush sound on the high-hat cymbal creates an almost jazzy mood.
I loved the bridge that connects the verses to the chorus. Its melody, and especially the vocal line are charming–they feel like a soft, loving caress that soothes the soul after a difficult day.
The chorus is anthemic, intimate and very catchy. Its rhythm is dynamic, from walking to fast, which is followed by a series of diverse bridges and interludes, where the guitar makes wonderful pickings, sides and taps. The last third of the track is the most intense, with a diversity of rhythms, tonalities, melodies and vocal interpretations that range from recited voice to operatic polyphonic chorus. All masterfully integrated by the drums of maestro Aquiles Priester. The magnificent ending is cinematic, giving the vibe of a movie ending and abrupt closure.
All in all, “The Alchemist” is a masterpiece within the album, both for the depth of its lyrical narrative and for its musical richness. It is a song that captivates, not only because of its lyrics, but it makes you think about what you do with your life and makes you question what is truly important. It also captivates you with its sober but rich progressive structure, with a diversity of layers, nuances and elements that you discover during its more than 13 minutes of duration. And each listen is different. Thus, it is one of the cuts that you are going to play repeatedly once you discover it.
“Ninety Six” is the instrumental song on the album. The concept is the same as “Gate XIII”, the outro song of Angra’s “Temple Of Shadows” album; a sound collage that takes various portions of all the songs on the album, puts them together and creates a spectacular trailer, well executed and very pleasant to the ear. It is an intimate shot, soft and as pleasant as the warm breeze at sunset on a summer day in Santiago, Chile.
The final ride is the spectacular “The Reason” enduring 05:03’. It is a ballad in compound 6/8 time, a powerful rhythmic base, incredible and thunderous, arpeggiated, syncopated riffs. The beautiful Yèzǐ features an emotional and heartfelt vocal performance that manages to convey the emotion of the lyrical narrative. It tells us about the loss of the meaning of life, hopelessness and pain, as well as the search to redefine one’s existence.
It is one of the most beautiful takes. Its melody is composed in a minor key. The perfect instrumental and vocal execution, full of deep nuances and stunning harmonies, create a dramatic and melancholic atmosphere that contrasts with the general, more hopeful vibe of the album. The spectacular percussion creates a precise backdrop, giving it just the right layer of progressive metal that makes it an epic closer to “Columbus.”
To wrap all this up, “Columbus” is an outstanding album in every sense. It evokes the best of the genre due to its diversity, its different layers and its timeless sonority, making it a listening experience that is heartily appreciated. It is also appreciated because it is an honest work that does not need too many decorations or presets to sound spectacular. And it doesn’t matter how many earthquakes come or how many times you have to record. It doesn’t even matter how long it takes to be ready and released; when an album is good, IT’S GOOD, period. Thus, “Columbus” is not only a spectacular compilation of the band’s more than 20-year career, but also an excellent prologue awaiting the release of their next album “The Legend of Great Wall II.”
And Barque Of Dante is one of those bands that you didn’t even know existed and suddenly reaches your ears. And as soon as you hear it for the first time, you wonder who the hell threw you up a tree that you never knew about their existence before. Well, it’s never too late to discover new music and new bands, when they’re good. THIS good! 10/10 by Elyna Steel
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