Druparia’s debut full-length, The River Above, is a bold and stirring addition to the melodic death metal genre. Scheduled for release on December 27 as a self-released effort, the album masterfully combines blistering riff work with sweeping atmospheres, delivering an emotionally charged listening experience. Echoing the melodic intricacies of Character-era Dark Tranquillity and Mors Principium Est, while embracing the poignant storytelling of Insomnium, Druparia confidently plants its roots in the genre’s rich soil.
The album opens with “Voiceless Regret,” immediately setting a somber yet fierce tone with melancholic melodies layered over a cascade of relentless riffs. “Under the Shade of Sand” and “Bereavement” follow suit, exploring themes of loss and existential longing, with each track weaving between aggressive and melodic passages. “Kintsugi” is a standout moment of introspection, its title referencing the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery, metaphorically channeling themes of resilience and beauty in imperfection.
Tracks like “Sever the Roots” and the title track “The River Above” are surefire crowd-pleasers, packing a balance of technical brilliance and raw energy. The former shines with a thunderous, anthemic chorus, while the latter evolves as an epic centerpiece, cascading with dynamic tempo shifts and stirring guitar harmonies.
The band takes a conceptual turn with “Of Firmament… And the Renewal,” which dives into celestial and mystical themes, showcasing their lyrical depth. Closing tracks “When Cranes Return” and “The Violet Hour” wrap the album in a somber beauty, leaving listeners with a reflective sense of closure. Notably, “The Violet Hour,” a cover of The Civil Wars, is reimagined through a haunting metal lens, paying tribute while transforming it into something uniquely Druparia’s.
The lyrical foundation of The River Above is steeped in sadness, regret, and mythology, punctuated by themes of nature and perseverance. The album’s name and Druparia’s identity, derived from the blackthorn plant associated with mysticism, are deeply intertwined with the band’s visual and lyrical ethos. This adds an extra layer of intrigue, as the music resonates not just sonically but symbolically, creating a cohesive experience.
The River Above is an exceptional debut that highlights Druparia’s potential to become a defining force in melodic death metal. While deeply rooted in the traditions of the genre, the album’s ability to blend atmospheric textures, emotional weight, and technical precision sets it apart. Each track tells its own story, but together they form a journey that’s as cathartic as it is enthralling.
For fans of Dark Tranquillity, Insomnium, and Mors Principium Est, Druparia offers something familiar yet fresh. With standout tracks like “Sever the Roots” and “The River Above,” and the bold inclusion of “The Violet Hour,” this is an album that will linger in the minds of listeners long after the final note fades.
Album Review: The River Above by Druparia
Release Date: December 27, 2024
Label: Self-Released
FFO: Sylosis, The Absence, Light This City, Gates of Ishtar, and Skeletonwitch.
