CHILDREN OF THE FROST
Last Winter’s Child (EP)
The Finnish symphonic metal band CHILDREN OF THE FROST are back with their latest release “Last Winter’s Child”, a compact but impactful three-track album that nods to the nostalgic sounds of 90s gothic metal while adding modern flair. Despite its brevity, the album showcases the band’s unique blend of influences, powerful musicality, and a depth that hints at the potential of a full-length project.
Track 1: “End Of Eternity”
Opening with ethereal synths and haunting choirs, “End Of Eternity” immediately draws comparisons to the gothic textures of Epica. The track layers rough vocals over a gothic melody, evoking a dark, immersive soundscape. Though the verses feel simple in melodic terms, the song’s layered production, intricate blast beats, and well-placed guitar solo add richness and complexity. Midway through, an ethereal interlude with layered vocals and standout drum work gives the song dimension, though the synth transition into the final chorus feels somewhat lacking. The song is undeniably strong and may benefit from a more dynamic buildup toward the end.
Track 2: “Like Father, Unlike Son”
This track bursts in with powerful energy, combining speed/thrash metal influences with an unexpected blend of clean and rough male vocals. While I initially missed the female vocals here, the unique vocal interplay kept me hooked, along with its heady, thrash-inspired guitar solo. The track’s standout moment comes in the form of a drum breakdown, where the bass shines with exceptional clarity. This might just be the album’s crowning jewel, delivering punchy rhythm and gripping instrumentation that make it an instant favourite.
Track 3: “The Last Winter’s Child”
Beginning with a delicate piano intro, this track builds into something far more layered, introducing synths, rhythm guitars, and rapid drum beats to keep listeners guessing. The pacing and structural variety make the track fly by, showcasing a compelling mix of up-tempo sections and reflective moments. Its commercial appeal, reminiscent of older Nightwish, has a quality that’s likely to resonate with a broad audience. Adding choirs or more complex melodies during the more open sections might have elevated it further, but the song remains a strong finish to the album.
Mix & Production
The production quality is superb, allowing each instrumental layer to shine distinctly and beautifully. The only element that occasionally detracts is the synth work, which sometimes risks sounding simplistic. While it lends a classic gothic feel, additional orchestration or layered melodies could add depth and sophistication to the overall sound.
Overall Impression
“Last Winter’s Child” is a powerful, nostalgic, yet forward-looking release. Each song offers a distinct atmosphere, highlighting the band’s potential in the symphonic metal landscape. The female vocals, while beautifully suited to the music, could benefit from a bit more dynamic range to add further emotional weight. Still, CHILDREN OF THE FROST present a solid musical identity that will surely appeal to fans of classic gothic and symphonic metal. If this album is any indication, the band’s future looks bright and promising.
Angela Ambrose