WITHIN TEMPTATION
WITHIN TEMPTATION “Bleed Out”
By Iron Sheik
WITHIN TEMPTATION return with a kickass heavier sound without losing any of their symphonic style on their new release “Bleed Out”. An album full of heavy metal, symphonic metal, and an operatic touch. They are a band comprised of founding members Sharon den Adel (vocals) and Robert Westerholt (rhythm guitar, studio only). Rounded out by musicians: Jeroen van Veen (bass), Martjin Spierenburg (keyboards), Ruud Jolie (lead guitar), Mike Coolen (drums), and Stefan Helleblad (rhythm guitar).
I was first attracted to Sharon den Adel's singing via AVANTASIA's “Metal Opera” in 2000. Ever since then I have followed her to WITHIN TEMPTATION. They have evolved over the last 26 years into an established group with integrity and commitment. Integrity in showing their true nature and a commitment to confronting and singing about subject matter close to home.
Themes of war in Ukraine, repeating history and deception (“We Go To War”, “Wireless”, “Cyanide Love”), personal awareness and choosing your own destiny (“Shed My Skin”), women fighting for freedom in Iran (“Bleed Out”), mortality (“Worth Dying For”), seduction with venomous perversity inspired by Quentin Tarantinos movie F”rom Dusk Till Dawn” (“Ritual”), redemption and self-reflection (“The Purge”), absolution and a woman's right to choose (“Don't Pray For Me”), and dealing with a toxic partner and breaking free of being who you are (“Unbroken”, “Entertain You”) are from a band willing to take a stand. They are issues they care about. Lyrically the album will appeal to listeners in different ways than the attached themes listed. It is a very deep album lyrically and sonically.
WITHIN TEMPTATION have come up with their heaviest album to date, and will invariably attract new listeners without alienating current fans. It is great to hear a band evolving at a slower, yet more profound pace, than bands that make major leaps from album to album. It makes it easier to take in and follow along. While Sharon den Adel and company have never been shy about confronting an occasional issue on past releases, they confront many head on on “Bleed Out”.