What makes Ballada Zemli by Catharsis notable?

The album received critical acclaim within the Russian metal community and helped cement Catharsis as a prominent figure in the symphonic metal genre. Its thematic exploration of human experience and environmental concerns resonated with listeners, contributing to discussions around ecological issues in music. Released in 2007, Ballada Zemli is Catharsis's third studio album, following their 2004 release, The Return. At this point, the band had solidified their presence in the Russian metal scene, gaining attention for their unique fusion of symphonic elements with heavy metal.

Who is Ballada Zemli for?

Ballada Zemli works well if you're into sweeping orchestral crescendos, poignant moments of reflection and short bursts of intensity.

How many songs are on Ballada Zemli?

Ballada Zemli has 5 tracks, running approximately 20 minutes.

Ballada Zemli

Catharsis · 2007

20 min · 5 tracks · symphonic metal

A sweeping blend of symphonic orchestration and powerful metal riffs that evoke grand narratives of struggle and resilience.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Возьми меня к воротам Вавилона — This opening track sets a dramatic tone with its orchestral arrangements and powerful vocals, encapsulating the album's epic themes from the outset.
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Баллада земли — The title track serves as a poignant reflection on humanity's relationship with nature, blending haunting melodies with impactful lyrics that highlight the band's thematic depth.
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Мы победим! — This anthem-like song features an uplifting message and showcases Catharsis's ability to meld intensity with hope, making it a standout piece that resonates with listeners.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100

Foothills

Higher than 35% of albums we've rated

The album blends orchestral elements with metal effectively, though it has some unevenness in execution and depth.

What we noticed

The title track is notably longer than the others, allowing for extended instrumental passages that build tension before resolving.
The EP includes a piano version of the title track, which contrasts with the heavier versions by stripping down the instrumentation.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

sweeping orchestral crescendos
poignant moments of reflection
short bursts of intensity
uplifting themes of resilience

Maybe skip if you

seekers of instant gratification
dislike symphonic arrangements

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — A mid-career EP that extends Catharsis's symphonic metal sound after the band had established its scene presence.
Career context: Released in 2007, Ballada Zemli is Catharsis's third studio album, following their 2004 release, The Return. At this point, the band had solidified their presence in the Russian metal scene, gaining attention for their unique fusion of symphonic elements with heavy metal.
Stylistic neighbors: Epica· Nightwish· Within Temptation