Is Hydra a good place to start with Within Temptation?

Yes, Hydra is recommended as a starting point for new Within Temptation listeners. A cinematic blend of orchestral arrangements and heavy guitar riffs envelops powerful vocal performances in this symphonic metal journey. Hydra marks Within Temptation's sixth studio album, released after their successful 2011 record, The Unforgiving. At this point, the band had established themselves as a leading force in the symphonic metal scene, blending gothic influences with mainstream appeal. This album followed a period of extensive touring and showcased their evolution towards a more contemporary sound while maintaining their signature orchestral elements.

Hydra works well if you're into immersive soundscapes for deep listening, steady pacing with emotional climaxes and haunting vocals for reflective moments.

How many songs are on Hydra?

Hydra has 10 tracks, running approximately 49 minutes.

Hydra

Within Temptation · 2014

49 min · 10 tracks · alternative metal

A cinematic blend of orchestral arrangements and heavy guitar riffs envelops powerful vocal performances in this symphonic metal journey.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Paradise (What About Us?) — This track features powerful guest vocals from Tarja Turunen, creating a dynamic interplay that enhances the song's themes of longing and introspection. Its orchestral arrangement exemplifies the band's ability to fuse heavy elements with melodic hooks.
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Dangerous — The driving rhythms and gritty guitar work create an energetic atmosphere that captures the essence of modern symphonic metal. The collaboration with Howard Jones adds an engaging layer of intensity to the track.
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Let Us Burn Start here — Opening the album, this track sets a dramatic tone with its sweeping melodies and evocative lyrics about empowerment amidst chaos. The combination of orchestration and powerful vocals showcases the band's signature style.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

immersive soundscapes for deep listening
steady pacing with emotional climaxes
haunting vocals for reflective moments
anthemic choruses for sing-alongs
for evening relaxation

Maybe skip if you

prefer quick, standalone tracks
dislike cinematic, expansive arrangements

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Ambitious production and strong reception mark it as a high point in their artistic journey.
Themes: contemporary societal issues· cinematic soundscapes· collaborative innovation
Career context: Hydra marks Within Temptation's sixth studio album, released after their successful 2011 record, The Unforgiving. At this point, the band had established themselves as a leading force in the symphonic metal scene, blending gothic influences with mainstream appeal. This album followed a period of extensive touring and showcased their evolution towards a more contemporary sound while maintaining their signature orchestral elements.
Stylistic neighbors: Nightwish· Epica· Lacuna Coil