Description
Elegy – Forbidden Fruit – Compact Disc
Elegy’s Forbidden Fruit is the fifth studio album by the Dutch progressive metal band, released on October 1, 2000, through T&T Records, a sub-label of Nuclear Blast Records. Known for their technical musicianship and melodic approach, Elegy continued to refine their sound on this record, blending elements of progressive metal with hard rock and melodic metal to create a dynamic and accessible album.
This release marked a period of maturity for the band, showcasing their ability to balance intricate compositions with memorable hooks and powerful performances.
Elegy was formed in 1986 and became known for their progressive metal style, which incorporates strong melodies and virtuosic instrumentation. Forbidden Fruit followed their 1998 album Manifestation of Fear and saw the band focusing on a more streamlined, melodic approach. The lineup at the time featured Ian Parry on vocals, whose powerful and emotive delivery became a hallmark of the band’s later work.
On Forbidden Fruit, Elegy leans into a polished production style that emphasizes melody and accessibility while retaining their progressive roots. The album features dynamic guitar work, lush keyboard textures, and intricate rhythm sections, all wrapped in a sound that balances complexity with catchiness. The lyrical themes often explore personal struggles, relationships, and introspection, delivered with Parry’s commanding and versatile vocal performance.
Track Listing:
‘Icehouse’ – A powerful opener with soaring vocals and intricate guitar work, setting a dramatic tone.
‘Force Majeure’ – A driving track with a mix of hard rock energy and progressive nuances.
‘No Code No Honour’ – A mid-tempo song with introspective lyrics and memorable melodies.
‘Forbidden Fruit’ – The title track, blending emotional depth with technical precision, featuring a standout chorus.
‘The Great Charade’ – A darker, atmospheric track that showcases the band’s ability to create mood and tension.
‘Behind the Tears’ – A heartfelt ballad with poignant lyrics and emotive vocal delivery.
‘Metamorphosis’ – A progressive centerpiece with shifting dynamics and a focus on instrumental interplay.
‘Under My Skin’ – A catchy, hard-hitting track with a balance of aggression and melody.
‘Over and Out’ – A closer that ties the album’s themes together with a mix of introspection and power.
The lyrics on Forbidden Fruit often delve into themes of temptation, human frailty, and self-discovery, using metaphorical imagery to explore the complexities of life and relationships. The title itself suggests a focus on the allure and consequences of forbidden desires, tying into the album’s introspective tone.
Forbidden Fruit was praised for its musicianship and the band’s ability to craft engaging songs that appealed to both progressive metal fans and listeners of more melodic rock styles. While it may not have achieved mainstream success, the album solidified Elegy’s reputation as a band capable of combining technical excellence with heartfelt expression.
Forbidden Fruit stands as a testament to Elegy’s ability to evolve their sound while staying true to their progressive metal roots. For fans of bands like Symphony X, Fates Warning, or Royal Hunt, this album offers a compelling mix of technical prowess, melodic hooks, and emotional depth.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of Elegy or new to their music, Forbidden Fruit is an album that demonstrates the band’s unique place in the progressive metal landscape, combining the genre’s complexities with a strong sense of accessibility.
Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic seal
Noise Records
Track Listing
1. Icehouse
2. Force Majeure
3. Killing Time
4. Behind The Tears
5. The Great Charade
6. ‘Til Eternity
7. Masquerade
8. Elegant Solution
9. I Believe
10. Forbidden Fruit
