March of the Unheard is a really bright start to the new albums from 2025. It sees The Halo Effect perfect what they started on their first album Days of the Lost.
This album works as a masterclass in melodic death metal. The twin guitar work inherited from Iron Maiden. Surprisingly catchy harsh vocals reminiscent of old In Flames or heavier moments of Soilwork. A smattering of clean vocals to bring some variety. There is also good use of acoustic guitar and electronic synth elements and keys to further expand the sonic experience. Album closer (excluding the 3 bonus tracks on the version I’m listening to) Coda brings things to calm instrumental close, with callbacks to sonic themes from throughout the album.
Talking bonus tracks. They are solid additions too. Can’t complain at an extra helping. Path of Fierce Resistance is a particular standout of these.
It really reminds me of early to mid 2000s melodic death. Not surprising considering the heritage of the members of this project. The songs while on the heavier side of metal are annoyingly catchy – the vocals and the guitar work.
I do feel the album is slightly front loaded with the stronger songs and slumps a little bit towards the end (not including the bonus tracks).
All in all, a really fun solid slab of melodic death metal. A really strong start for the 2025 releases.
Top tracks: Our Channel to the Darkness, Conspire to Deceive, Detonate
2 responses to “The March of the Unheard by The Halo Effect”
Good review because I’m a massive In Flames fan, I’ve been listening to Halo Effect from the get go, I like them but for some reason don’t listen on a regular basis but when a track comes on shuffle I really enjoy it.
Another ex In Flames band to give a listen to is Priest very electronic but very enjoyable.
Thanks for the comment! I end up doing the same – I’ll listen to in a playlist or shuffle but need to go out of my way to listen to them more. They’re great live too! Ill check out Priest, haven’t come across them.