VANDERLUST - The Human Farm (CD)

Vanderlust are an Italian progressive metal band driven by a clear and coherent artistic vision: to tell science-fiction stories through a metal language that is both rooted in tradition and open to modern, progressive evolution. Their sound combines melodic and power metal foundations with intricate structures, refined arrangements and a strong atmospheric component, resulting in music that is energetic, detailed and deeply narrative. Rather than focusing solely on technical display, Vanderlust aim to immerse the listener in futuristic scenarios that explore themes of humanity, awareness, freedom and curiosity about what lies beyond known boundaries.

Their new album "The Human Farm" represents a decisive step forward in the band’s artistic growth. Conceived as a fully realized concept album, it is designed to be experienced as a continuous journey rather than a collection of standalone tracks. Each song functions as a chapter within a broader science-fiction narrative, unfolding with a strong sense of continuity and purpose. While the record includes memorable and catchy moments that work effectively as singles, its full emotional and conceptual impact emerges when listened to in its entirety, following the natural progression of the story.

Compared to the band’s debut, "The Human Farm" expands and fully develops elements that were previously only hinted at. The songwriting is more personal, elaborate and polished with a greater emphasis on progressive structures and expressive riffing without resorting to excessive track lengths. Electronic textures and orchestral arrangements are used with precision to reinforce the sci-fi atmosphere while the overall energy of the album has been deliberately increased through more power-driven and dynamic compositions. The result is a record that balances complexity and accessibility, offering depth without sacrificing momentum or immediacy.

Musically, Vanderlust draw from classic melodic and power metal traditions, particularly in the vocal approach while integrating progressive metal sensibilities and occasional prog-thrash accents that sharpen the album’s futuristic edge. This blend creates a sound that can evoke references such as Angra and Dream Theater for its compositional ambition, Rhapsody Of Fire for its vocal expressiveness and bands like Vektor and Megadeth for its sharper, sci-fi-tinged riffing. These influences are never imitative but instead serve as a foundation for a clearly defined and personal musical identity.

The songwriting process for "The Human Farm" was led by guitarist Francesco Romeggini, with ideas developed collaboratively within the band to ensure cohesion and shared artistic direction. Although much of the material was written before the arrival of the new bass player, his contribution proved valuable in refining arrangements and optimizing the final structure of the songs. Particular care was taken to ensure that music and narrative were inseparable with each composition crafted to reflect the emotional and dramatic needs of the story at that specific point in its arc.

This same philosophy extends to Vanderlust’s live approach. Even with music that can be complex and intricate, the band’s performances are built around energy, engagement and a strong connection with the audience. Rather than adopting a detached, execution-focused prog metal stance, Vanderlust aim to translate the intensity and momentum of their compositions into a dynamic and involving live experience.

With "The Human Farm", Vanderlust present a mature, ambitious and coherent release that merges melodic metal tradition with progressive thinking and science-fiction aesthetics. It is an album aimed at listeners who value storytelling, musical depth and immersive long-form listening, positioning the band as a compelling presence within the contemporary melodic and progressive metal landscape.

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- Second full-length album by progressive metal act Vanderlust