Since Delirium, Lacuna Coil has been maintaining a consistent course in keeping things decidedly heavy. Andrea Ferro’s roars strengthened, and an added contrast with Cristina Scabbia was a welcome one, which augmented the groovy riff emphasis. It continued to work for the follow-up Black Anima, and Sleepless Empire sees the band even more comfortable with this dynamic and push the boundaries further.
Not to say that the band is just standing still. “Sleep Paralysis” offers an almost slithering atmospheric tone that borders on melodic doom with it’s lumbering pace and weighty feel. “I Wish You Were Dead” delivers some darkly humorous lyrics and more of an upbeat sound that also makes it stand out significantly over the course of the album. On the more melancholic side is “In the Mean Time,” which features guest vocals from Ash Costello, giving it a modern melodic edge that’s full of hooks but still features a side of groovy venom. Then there is the title track, full of tension and urgent energy as it churns through some midtempo riffing and haunting atmosphere.
That said, the heavier and more aggressive energy that has been a part of the band for a few albums is certainly ever-present. The closer “Never Dawn” doesn’t lack for atmosphere, but it’s biggest perk is the massive riffing that defines it once it picks up steam. Eerie atmosphere is bolstered by some of the strongest, heaviest riffs in the album as the Ferro/Scabbia vocal dynamics go at full throttle. “Hosting the Shadow” also utilizes Lamb of God vocalist Randy Blythe in the vocal mix and gives it an even heavier feeling when he takes the mic. The opening cut “The Siege” features some enticing melodies from Scabbia in the chorus, with increased intensity from Ferro’s shouts in the background, providing a nice contrast of heaviness and melody.
This heavy iteration of Lacuna Coil has always been one to watch, and Sleepless Empire shows the band still has plenty of hunger even with three decades under their belt. They continue to grow and shift their sound into new and exciting directions while recognizing the core sound of the band and embracing it. This album should please those who have kept up with the band, as well as continue to garner new eyes and ears as they hear the combination of big grooves and bewitching melodies.