Debuting today via Rockshot Records is Aedan Sky and their stunning space rock opera album titled The Universal Realm. Born as the solo project from Sébastien Chabot, known for his work as the guitarist and vocalist of French power metal band Galderia, as well as the bassist/composer for Kingscrown, working alongside ex-Nightmare frontman Joe Amore, Aedan Sky is a speed-riddled, uplifting creation rooted deep in Power Metal’s origins.

A shining star for European power metal, “The Universal Realm” rises beyond concept, mixing melody, spirit and speed to create a ten-chapter tale of awakening. Pulling influence from esoteric philosophy and scifi, this album tells the story of adventurers Aedan and Sky as they journey through space, time, and the consciousness of man. Their mission – return the spark to humanity’s inner light.

From the very beginning, we are immersed in a dazzling radiance of a galaxy far beyond what humanity can comprehend. Twinkling keys and cinematic instrumentals paint a vivid picture of a realm far beyond our own; one filled with the rebirth of a fiery supernova, and the unknowns of a blackhole.

“Call of the Universe” takes that immersion and cranks the speed tenfold. Power metal’s speed rings true as this track peels back the wonder to fully pull is into the wonders of this universe. It’s fast, catchy, and epic with the same vocals you’d expect in a power metal track, while still stunning with those mystical riffs and whimsical lyrics.

“A Kingdom to the Stars” holds the same energy as our opener, pulling in some wicked guitar work to give this song its own bit of flash and flare. It’s got a commanding chorus, with the energy to back it as you raise your fist into the air. You can’t help but headbang to this one!

“Gate of Skies” takes on the ballad approach. With a choir of stars at its back, we fall upon the prowess of confident vocals before thundering right back into the epics. While speed still keeps a steady course on this track, we turn to vocal infectiousness to carry us through and damn if you aren’t singing along by the end of this one, because it’s catchy as hell!

“Beyond the Vortex of Time” has an essence of classic thrash in its guitars, really taking the time to crank up the energy and carry us along. It’s the gallop across a sprawling plain, feeling the wind and freedom in your blood as you know war is at your back. Time is limited, but the absolute intensity of this track is not. With a KILLER guitar solo, “Beyond the Vortex of Time” leaves nothing behind.

“From the Ashes to the Light” is a story-bound track. With lyrics, vocals, and sound that come in like the end credits to a chapter, this track goes hard in every way. From heavy bass to rising riffs, there is a sense of purpose renewed, bounding forward on hope and unwavering faith. It’s passionate, heavy, and commanding as it steers is through the unknowns, the failures we’ve experienced, promising us that the way ahead is worth the sacrifice.

“Land of Paradise” comes in on a cheesy note, but that is what power metal keeps sacred. However, it absolutely cascades cinema when those guitars kick in and we are once again transcended beyond the sky above. From the wonders awaiting, and the tragedies behind us we emerge to witness what the journey has been all about. Shine on – and lead us ever forward. To the end or beyond? We’re in this together and this track really anchors that sense of hope.

“Illumination” absolutely stuns – point blank. This track is what power metal is all about as it courses through our veins! It’s powerful, catchy, and filled with that fantasy flare I can’t get enough of. Those lighters in the air? They’re here! The chanting fans? They’ve got it under control. Rocking guitars? All you! But that influence? That sense of comradery? It’s all here and it’s all so damn epic! If I have to name a favourite, it would be “Illumination“!

A perfect lead into our final, title track “The Universal Realm” – a track that encompasses the emotions, the experiences, and the sights of our journey wrapped into one beautiful melody. Delicate keys cascade the stars around us, letting us wander through our memories once more. It is our closure, and yet not the end of our adventures as a beautiful ballad retells of our glory, our downfall, and our discoveries.

As it all winds down, Aedan Sky has crafted a perfect 10-track album filled with vivid imagery, powerful sound, and strong story-telling. Each track throws us deep into a new chapter of this saga, pulling sorrow, excitement, and wrath from our bodies while we explore realms beyond our wildest dreams. Perfectly balanced vocals are echoed by wicked riff work and tantalizing instrumentals to not only create a world of adventure and mystery, but immerse us in it, together, as one. The Universal Realm is a tale I recommend to any avid power metal fan, and I’m sure Aedan Sky is happy to take us alongside them as they continue their sagas in the future.

You can stay up-to-date with Aedan Sky and all their news, releases, and much more via their socials.

Aedan Sky is:
– Sébastien Chabot as SKY
– Bob Saliba (Kingcrown, ex-Galderia) as AEDAN
– Thomas Schmitt (Galderia) as SKY’s Soul

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