Codex Atlanticus cover

Released 10 years ago

Codex Atlanticus

Serenity · 2016

68 min · 15 tracks · progressive metal

A sweeping blend of symphonic elements and intricate melodies that drive the narrative of progressive metal forward.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Follow Me — This track exemplifies the band's signature sound with its energetic riffs and captivating chorus, inviting listeners into the album's overarching narrative.
  • →
    My Final Chapter — Serving as an emotional centerpiece, this song combines poignant lyrics with powerful instrumentation, showcasing the band's ability to fuse storytelling with musicality.
  • →
    The Perfect Woman — With its intricate melodies and thought-provoking lyrics, this track explores themes of idealism and reality, representing the album’s philosophical undertones.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100
Foothills
Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate compositions but lacks a strong cohesive flow across its length.

What we noticed

  • The first track features a lengthy orchestral introduction that sets a dramatic tone before transitioning into heavy guitar riffs.
  • Several tracks incorporate dual vocal harmonies, alternating between clean and growled vocals to enhance the storytelling.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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

  • thought-provoking lyrical explorations
  • orchestral depth enhancing dynamics
  • immersive listening for contemplation
  • patient unfolding of themes
  • cinematic soundscapes for reflection

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer standalone hit tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Upon releasing Codex Atlanticus in January 2016, Serenity was establishing their presence within the progressive metal scene, following their 2013 album, War of Ages. This album marked a continuation of their thematic exploration into historical and philosophical concepts, positioning them as a distinctive voice in the genre during this period.
Stylistic neighbors
Evergrey· Nightwish· Kamelot

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Codex Atlanticus 1:55
  • 2 Follow Me 3:52
  • 3 Sprouts of Terror 5:14
  • 4 Iniquity 5:33
  • 5 Reason 4:13
  • 6 My Final Chapter 4:13
  • 7 Caught in a Myth 5:35
  • 8 Fate of Light 4:45
  • 9 The Perfect Woman 4:57
  • 10 Spirit in the Flesh 5:01
  • 11 The Order 5:26
  • 12 Forgive Me 5:32
  • 13 Sail 4:13
  • 14 My Final Chapter (orchestral version) 4:13
  • 15 My Final Chapter (instrumental version) 4:11

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata