Instanzia
Ghosts

In that genre plagued by comparisons with masterpieces of the past, now destroyed by global critics and also prejudicedly labeled as power metal, there are still some, some bands that for better or worse try to put into music their desire to emerge. They, the four members forming the band Instanzia, hailing from Quebec, a region of Canada, made a name for themselves after the release of their debut album titled "Ghosts".

The album in question meets all the typical (and I would add now stereotypical) characteristics of power metal. We are talking about the presence of background keyboards, execution speed, double bass drum ruling, melody. Yet, despite all these clichés, the band manages to rise from the abyss of anonymity primarily thanks to their desire to emerge by bringing a breath of fresh air into this way of playing metal.

After numerous disappointments in these years regarding power metal, I approached this work with skepticism, not even too attracted by a well-curated cover and booklet. The indifference (and prejudices) that had grown in me towards this genre led me to reject listening to "Ghosts". After hearing some good impressions about this debut album around, I decided to give it a chance, and even though it represents nothing that would make one cry out for a miracle, it is a good piece of modern power metal. A clear example of all this is represented by "Ghosts of the past" where the taste for melody and the centrality of the chorus, a fundamental element of Instanzia, especially emerge. Other excellent examples of power metal are "Charming deceiver", "Power of the mind", and "Heavenly hell". All tracks where the combo's good technical skills stand out, particularly the singer's velvety voice Alexis Woodbury, who, aware of his abilities, avoids imitating Michael Kiske's crystalline vocals. An additional mention goes to the concluding "The desert fox", inspired by the "Desert Fox" Erwin Rommel, one of the most renowned generals and strategists of the Hitlerian era.

"Ghosts" is therefore a good symphonic metal album, possessing all those elements now overused by the myriad of clone bands born in recent years. However, Instanzia succeeds in a compelling formula that finds its strength in simplicity. Give it a chance.

1. "Omen" (2:29)
2. "Ghosts Of The Past" (5:07)
3. "Power Of The Mind" (4:51)
4. "Charming Deceiver" (4:46)
5. "Heavenly Hell" (8:49)
6. "A Genius Who Believes" (6:12)
7. "The Key" (4:14)
8. "The Desert Fox" (11:12)