What makes In Harmonia Universali by Solefald notable?

This album marked a significant evolution in Solefald's sound, showcasing their ability to weave complex narratives and experimental arrangements. It received positive reviews from critics, further solidifying their influence in the progressive metal genre and inspiring subsequent bands to explore unconventional structures and lyrical depth. Released in 2003, In Harmonia Universali is Solefald's fourth studio album, following the critically acclaimed The Linear Scaffold. At this point in their career, the band was establishing themselves within the Norwegian metal scene, known for their innovative approach that combined various genres and philosophical themes.

How many songs are on In Harmonia Universali?

In Harmonia Universali has 10 tracks, running approximately 60 minutes.

In Harmonia Universali

Solefald · 2003

60 min · 10 tracks · progressive metal

A kaleidoscopic blend of progressive metal and avant-garde influences that defy traditional genre boundaries.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Nutrisco et Extinguo — The opening track sets the tone with its ambitious fusion of melodic elements and intricate rhythms, encapsulating the band's unique approach to progressive metal.
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Christiania (E. Munch Commemoration) — This track exemplifies Solefald's thematic depth, blending personal narrative with cultural commentary while employing varied musical dynamics.
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Buy My Sperm — With its provocative title and bold musical shifts, this track challenges societal norms and showcases the band's willingness to push boundaries both lyrically and sonically.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The album's complex arrangements and genre-blending make it a notable entry in progressive metal.

What we noticed

The album features abrupt shifts in tempo and style, with tracks often transitioning from aggressive metal riffs to softer, melodic passages.
Several tracks incorporate spoken word elements and unconventional song structures, deviating from traditional verse-chorus formats.
The use of diverse instrumentation, including strings and synthesizers, adds layers to the sound, creating a rich auditory tapestry.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 3/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 Nutrisco et Extinguo 7:11
2 Mont Blanc Providence Crow 5:15
3 Christiania (E. Munch Commemoration) 8:20
4 Epictetus & Irreversibility 5:58
5 Dionysify This Night of Spring 8:12
6 Red Music Diabolos (instrumental) 4:34
7 Buy My Sperm 4:35
8 Fraternité de la Grande Lumière 5:12
9 The Liberation of Destiny 6:28
10 Sonnenuntergang im Weltraum 4:32

What to play next

Listen next

Red for Fire: An Icelandic Odyssey, Part I

2005

Go back to

Pills Against the Ageless Ills

2001

Full Solefald discography Artists like Solefald

progressive metal

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata