Alia Tempora ‘Dragonfly Effect’

This is the second album from Alia Tempora - a female-fronted, modern metal band from Czechia. They are on tour in the UK right now promoting it, including dates in Edinburgh, Newcastle and Inverness this week.

The album embraces both euro-synth and symphonic rock styles. They are definitely on the lighter side of the spectrum though, with singer and unicorn princess Marketa ‘Markie’ Moravkova bringing bright colours and positivity into an often dark genre. Obvious influences include ‪Delain‬, ‪Amaranthe‬ and ‪Lacuna Coil‬ but the band have their own signature sound and there are several unique touches throughout, including fan contributions and a surprise guest appearance.

Lead single ‘Humanity’ is a moving and uplifting song. It utilises speech extracts from Charlie Chaplin’s 1940 film ‘The Great Dictator’ to great effect and lyrically it fits aptly with current world scenarios. ‘Loser Like Me’ has also been released with a video. It is another quality song and features anti-hater lyrics. Harder edged tunes include ‘Bark on Me’ which takes a darker turn and features great guitar work and growling from Stepan Reznicek.

The guest appearance is from Mexican performer, Mario Del Rio Escobedo (The Darkstar Calling). He duets with Markie on ‘Asking’ and then again on ‘Por Siempre’ (Forever) where both sing in Spanish throughout and both are very effective.

The band, and Markie in particular, have a close bond with their fans (‘Aliers’) and the vocal submissions of 100 fans are included choir-style in ‘Crossroads’, which also features some fine keyboard work. Another favourite is the haunting piano ballad ‘Black ‘n’ Blue’ which builds into a glorious and joyous chorus.

The slightly Eastern-European inflected vocal accent adds charm and flavour and there’s definitely enough variety and brightness to make this release stand out in a crowded market. You should check them out and support their tour if you can.