Album Review. ECLIPSE “Megalomanium” (2023)

“Eclipse”, The Swedish Rock Sensation Redefines Their Sound with “Megalomanium”

The Swedish rock powerhouse, ECLIPSE, has captivated global audiences throughout the 21st century with their energetic compositions and dynamic performances. Their brand of high-quality melodic rock has continuously drawn in a growing fan base with each successive album. Presenting a fresh gem that could easily be seen as a crowning achievement in the band’s discography, ECLIPSE showcases their evolution.

Here at Rock and Blog, we’ve been closely monitoring their journey, and I must admit that this effort has taken me by surprise. While staying true to their unique essence, ECLIPSE has amplified their intensity several notches, incorporating more forceful and daring sounds. The result is an astonishingly impressive product.

Erik Mårtensson, the frontman and vocalist of the group, describes the album as a bold immersion into the band’s integral identity – a hybrid of the familiar and the unknown. But what does this precisely mean? In the following passages, we’ll provide you with an in-depth explanation.

The journey begins with “Megalomanium,” introduced by “The Hardest Part Is Losing You,” a song that encapsulates the very essence of Eclipse. From the gentle guitar chords in the beginning to the irresistibly catchy chorus carried by Erik Mårtensson’s potent vocals, the band sets a tone that serves as the foundation for an emotional voyage that unfolds across the entire album. The melody, commanding verses, and a classic ’80s solo all converge to craft a complete musical piece that also stands as the lead single.

Moving forward with a rhythm bursting with adrenaline, “Got It!” explodes with energy, grabbing attention right from the initial scream. With the solid rhythmic foundation provided by Philip Crusner on drums and Victor Crusner on bass, the song beckons you to move to its beat. Furthermore, it clarifies the album’s direction, presenting a myriad of bolder sounds and elements compared to the band’s usual repertoire.

“Anthem” abruptly shifts the intensity with a purely Eclipse-styled introduction, a balladic approach bordering on a medium tempo and carrying a sense of anthem. The song capitalizes on the Swedes’ ability to construct sticky verses and choruses that are bound to resonate in live performances, motivating everyone to sing out loud.

“Children of the Night” takes a darker, more mysterious turn. The band explores new frontiers in this track, blending Heavy Metal elements with the characteristic style of Ronnie James Dio, all wrapped in a melancholic atmosphere that permeates all of Eclipse’s compositions. It’s a captivating cut that underscores the group’s versatility and evolution, firmly positioning it as a favorite.

In “Hearts Collide,” we venture into another medium-tempo realm where the focus shifts to Mårtensson’s vocals, energetic choruses, and Henriksson’s ever-prominent guitar.

“I Don’t Get It” introduces unusual elements for the band, such as a playful keyboard that complements the riffs and the soulful screams. This reintroduces darker territories, adding an extra layer of visceral energy that characterizes “Megalomanium.”

The mid-tempo track “The Broken” starts with a touch reminiscent of Red Hot, but quickly returns to Eclipse’s roots, featuring a more restrained Erik compared to previous tracks and allowing Henriksson’s guitars to take center stage. The song is dedicated to the oppressed and misunderstood, and can be seen as both a rallying cry and a social protest.

“With ‘So Long, Farewell, Goodbye,’ we reclaim high energy levels with an opening guitar riff that inevitably brings to mind Crüe’s ‘Dr. Feelgood.’ However, the song doesn’t linger there, as it weaves guitar twists throughout, echoing Dio’s legacy while galloping over an impressive rhythmic foundation.

“High Road” represents the band’s attempt to craft their own road anthem, purring with power yet also featuring modern metal elements, with much of the vocal weight on Victor, adding an extra layer of personality.

“One Step Closer to You” is another mid-tempo gem, possibly the most ‘ECLIPSE’ track on the album, comfortably aligning with your favorites from previous records.

With “Forgiven,” ECLIPSE reserves one last shot to confirm this as undeniably one of the year’s top albums. Epic, melodic, fierce, and immensely comprehensive.

“Megalomanium” encapsulates Eclipse’s essence and their evolution over the years. Their unique blend of energetic rock, melancholic mid-tempo pieces, heartfelt ballads, and now an added touch of dark energy is present. Throughout the album, we witness Erik taking risks and exploring the nuances of his voice, while Magnus Henriksson, approaching virtuosity, remains a band’s guitarist. The rhythm section, featuring Philip Crusner on drums and Victor Crusner on bass, evolves from previous records, crafting more intricate and diverse lines.

Eclipse has birthed a creation that will captivate their faithful followers, while simultaneously drawing in new admirers. While the album meets fan expectations, it also reveals the band’s willingness to tread new territories and step out of their comfort zone.