JD Miller‘s highly anticipated fourth studio album, Empyrean, marks a triumphant return for the Swedish hard rock group. With a lineup bolstered by the return of guitarist Tommy Timonen and the addition of bassist Jonny Trobro, the band presents a sonic landscape that is both heavier and more accessible – and certainly more progressive – than ever before.
From the opening track The Butterfly onwards it’s evident that JD Miller is seeking to push some boundaries with this new offering. This album sees the band delving into a heavier sound scape while retaining their signature melodic sensibilities. Tracks like Out of Control and closing shot Alive showcase a sleek, modern edge, demonstrating JD Miller’s ability to evolve while staying true to their roots.
However, for this writer it’s the second half of the album where JD Miller truly shines. The more progressive rock-influenced tracks here take the listener on a captivating journey through intricate melodies and thought-provoking lyrics. Songs like Awake (We Are the Machines), One In a Million and especially Call The Police stand out as highlights, showcasing the band’s musical prowess and songwriting depth.
Empyrean is not just an album, but a narrative-driven experience. JD Miller weaves a compelling story throughout the record, exploring the complex minds of those deemed to be on the wrong side of the law in the universe. This thematic depth adds another layer of intrigue to an already captivating musical journey.
Credit must be given to Mikael Andersson for his masterful mixing and mastering work on the album. The production quality is top-notch, delivering a punchy sound that perfectly complements the album’s melodies and themes. Andersson’s expertise elevates Empyrean to dark horse status, making it a standout release so far in 2024 across multiple genres.
The lineup of Peter Halldén on lead vocals, Emil Eriksson on guitar and keyboards, Tommy Timonen on guitar, and Jonny Trobro on bass guitar is firing on all cylinders throughout e record. Each member brings their A-game, resulting in a cohesive and dynamic musical experience from start to finish.
In summary, Empyrean solidifies JD Miller’s status as one of the premier acts in the European melodic hard rock/metal scene. With its blend of heavy riffs, infectious melodies, and thematic depth, this album is sure to resonate with both longtime fans and newcomers alike. JD Miller has delivered their magnum opus, and it’s an experience not to be missed.
Empyrean releases on May 10TH.
Thanks for the awesome review! It’s always nice to see someone who actually takes the time to listen and go deeper!
Best regards Peter of JD Miller.
Ps. We are actually from Sweden. 🇸🇪
Hey Peter – thanks for that – as you can see we’ve amended the piece!
Cheers and good luck with the album!