Album Review: Visions of Atlantis – Armada Live Over Europe (Napalm Records)

Pirates never rest, nor do the raging seas! Following the triumphant release of Pirates II – Armada, extensive touring and the ongoing success of their Armada Live Over Europe series the international symphonic metal frontrunners Visions of Atlantis will release their live album ‘Armada Live Over Europe’ via Napalm Records on July 4th, 2025.

Music like this takes on a whole new form when played live. Especially when it comes from a creative force like Visions of Atlantis. As on ardent detractor of ‘pirate metal’, the presumption is that I would dislike this bond, but their approach is for more enjoyable. Coming From a sumptuous, cinematic and symphonic place, infused with power and anthemic through and through.

It also helps that the pirate thing is just one aspect of who they are, even if the last two albums were called ‘Pirates’ (2022) and ‘Pirates II – Armada’ (2024).

16 of the 19 tracks are taken from those two records, with almost all tracks from the latter performed on this record. Although it should be noted that this is a collection of live recordings and not all taken from one show exclusively. Although you wouldn’t necessarily notice that – such is the high quality of the recordings. A necessity considering how important the vocals are in this band.

It also matters as Visions of Atlantis are a symphonic band and that means layers. All of which are richly showcased in epic, dramatic, melodic, and heavy fashion. It really is a fantastic recording and such a showcase of modern technology. Especially as crowds can be heard and several interaction moments have been included.

Which is great, because if you want the studio experience, you should go listen to the studio albums. This is Visions of Atlantis live and hearing people chant along, cheer loudly, and just sound like they’re having a good time, is special.

Sure, it’s a sonic spectacle, filled with pomp, but this kind of bombastic sound is nothing, if not designed for the stage. It helps that Visions of Atlantis are on addictive listen, and this live recording showcases the best bits of their modern sound. You don’t have to love everything they offer here (I don’t) but you should be able to recognise the talent involved. A wonderful touch? Clemi’s speech – you could hear a pin drop.

Visions of Atlantis – Armada Live Over Europe Track Listing:

1. To Those Who Choose to Fight
2. The Land of the Free
3. ⁠Monsters
4. ⁠Heroes of the Dawn
5. Where the Sky and Ocean Blend
6. ⁠Clocks
7. Legion of the Seas
8. ⁠Tonight I’m Alive
9. ⁠Collide
10. ⁠Hellfire
11. ⁠The Dead of the Sea
12. Clemi’s Speech
13. Underwater
14. Magic of the Night
15. Pirates Will Return
16. Melancholy Angel
17. Master the Hurricane
18. Tour Farewell
19. Armada

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