Forever Still’s ‘Breathe in Colours’ Is The New “Go To” Album

Forever Still’s ‘Breath In Colours’ album cover art

Is it possible to have a symphonic and pop infused record at the same time? Forever Still of Copenhagen, Denmark think so! Using Simone Simons (of Epica) for inspiration, Forever Still creates their album, Breathe in Colours. I had always known of Forever Still; as they have toured with bands such as Lacuna Coil and Children of Bodom. However, I had not listened to much of them until this album. In doing so, I think I’ve found a new “go to” record when I don’t know what to listen to.

 Pressing play, I feel as though I’m on a ride. The beginning of Rewind includes a merry-go-round-esque sound that makes me feel like I’m at a carnival. A theme that would continue throughout the album. Immediately, singer Maja Shining, shows her vocal range. Murmuring high pitched notes right out the gate. The gentle vibrato of Shining’s voice adds an angelic feel.

Title track, Breath In Colours, does well to represent the widespread influences. The guitars and drums mesh with Shining’s vocals in a way that complements each other eloquently. However, the whispering of the lyric “everyone got left behind” comes off as unoriginal and an attempt to be edgy. Is It Gonemakes two appearances on the album, one acoustic and one with the full band. Shining, especially in the acoustic version, holds back her powerful voice in a way that shows sometimes less is more. I feel this track should have ended the album, as closer Perfect Day represents the best example of album filler I could ever think of.

My favorite song comes in at number five with Survive. Shining, again, displays her vocal ability as she is both forceful and gentle with her vocal pose. The Epica-influenced singer almost ventures towards the gritty rock sound of Janis Joplin during this banger. The guitars fall off course in a good way; hitting notes that sound wrong, but so fitting all at once. Impacts continue to be apparent on tracks such as Pieces. On this adventure, Shining pleads “I can save myself” with an echo-type quality that is usually identified with ex-Flyleaf singer, Lacey Sturm. 

 The commercial intent of this album is evident on tracks such as Do You Worst and Rising Over You. The latter song having an incredibly obvious goal of ending up on the active rock charts. Filling a chorus with the repetitive and simplistic “I’m the [insert adjective]” lyric gave it away. 

Despite my criticisms, I enjoyed this album. It’s incredibly welcoming and is a perfect gateway album for the metal-curious teen. Possessing a varied sound, I could see this band teaming up with either In This Moment or Nightwish for a tour. In this dawn of music, being accessible to multiple audiences is vital. 

Rate: 3.5 out of 5

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