Metatrone: Sangueacqua | Stepping Up The Pace
(2026 – Rockshots Records)
The new album by the Italian band Metatrone has arrived—a band known for its Christian lyrics, though from a distinctly “Roman Catholic” perspective, one might say. Setting aside doctrinal or conceptual differences, Metratone is generally classified as part of the White Metal genre—or Metal with Christian themes in its lyrics—and, of course, we weren’t going to pass up the chance to give their latest release a listen.
Metatrone had surprised us back in the day with their style—a blend of Power Metal interspersed with Symphonic Metal and even progressive elements—a cross between Rhapsody (the quintessential Italian band in this genre) and Stratovarius. However, they’ve released only three albums since 2006; in fact, their last release was in 2016 (“Eucharismetal”), and 10 years have passed since then. The Italians had already been hinting at something new, based on the tracks they previewed throughout 2025—particularly “Emmaus,” “Facsimile,” and “Stato Infame”—which ultimately led to the release of “Sangueacqua,” featuring truly impeccable production.
I hesitate to say that “Sangueacqua” is the best thing Metatrone has ever done, but it certainly ranks among their very best. First and foremost, what we have here is an album with just eight songs, of a much higher caliber in every respect than any of the band’s other albums.
Essentially, what stands out about “Sangueacqua” is greater compositional cohesion, coupled with better production in every respect. The band continues to solidify its style—already familiar to many—venturing down more progressive paths at times, while maintaining vocals in their native language, Italian, which lends a unique character to their sound, in addition to their lyrics, of course.
“Fuori Dal Tempio” is the first track to play as soon as we start “Sangueacqua.” It kicks off with the classic Power Metal rhythm and Metatrone’s signature vocals—a mix of clean vocals, some growls, and what one might call an emerging Gregorian-style vocalization. Guitar and keyboard solos, very much in the Rhapsody style, give it that familiar touch. Next up is one of the tracks the band had previewed: “Stato Infame,” with a much less intense rhythm and a more melodic feel—a clear demonstration of the evolution of Metatrone’s sound.
“Emmaus” was also among the previews the band had released prior to this album’s launch. In a much more relaxed and atmospheric mood, Metatrone delves into the melodic parameters of progressive rock, with certain riffs and rhythms that still keep the Italian band firmly rooted in metal, while “Facsimile” showcases a blend of intricate riffs and fast, furious rhythms, all while maintaining melodic harmonies throughout. A music video for this track has also been released, which we’ve included below so you can watch and listen to it.
The biggest surprise on “Sangueacqua” is the inclusion of a cover. In this case, it’s the well-known “I Want Out” by Helloween, performed excellently and staying true to the song’s original arrangement—even Metatrone’s singer, Jo Lombardo, sounds almost exactly like Michael Kiske, so much so that we suspected he might be a guest vocalist, but no, it’s just Jo Lombardo. An impressive cover!!!!
With “Il Mio Dolore,” Metatrone returns to the familiar territory of the most ferocious, fast-paced, and at the same time melodic Power Metal—very much in the style of Angra, one might say—while “Un Nome Nuovo” is the typical melodic ballad, at a moderate tempo and with a vibe that’s more mystical than epic, yet it fulfills its purpose, becoming the album’s most climactic moment.
The album closes with “Anima Christi,” a track with a distinctly epic, medieval vibe and a legendary feel that brings to mind Rhapsody. It’s a classic power metal march with mystical undertones, harmonious choruses, and sounds that evoke a style familiar to everyone—including the band’s own fans.
Ultimately, “Sangueacqua” doesn’t come as much of a surprise to those familiar with Metatrone’s work, but it’s worth noting that improved production has resulted in a much more cohesive and polished album, with distinct moments that complement one another. The songs on the album interact with one another in some way, creating different moods and sensations.
Metatrone has made the simplicity and precision of the song structures something to be appreciated. The songs aren’t very long and don’t drag on into endless journeys of more or less epic and majestic sounds; above all, each track on “Sangueacqua” is short and to the point, with basic, precise compositions.
In that sense, the band has managed the pacing well, tightened up their sound, and delivered an album with enough substance to keep anyone from getting bored. Speed and fluidity are some of the characteristics evident in this new work by the Italians, and it’s worth noting that they haven’t shied away from using Italian in their songs—a point worth highlighting, especially considering that many believe that if you don’t sing in English, people won’t pay attention to you.
Part of the success of this album lies in the sound, which is clear and precise, and a mix that perfectly polishes the result, giving Metatrone a more contemporary sound without getting bogged down in an overload of sounds.
As for the artwork, the cover features an illustration that somewhat captures the album’s title, presenting a religious and apocalyptic vision—two concepts that go hand in hand. Meanwhile, the inner sleeve features the song lyrics—artwork that follows the logic of the cover—and photographs of the band members. All of this comes together in a presentation of undeniably enviable quality, making the purchase of this album in physical format truly worthwhile. As of now, a vinyl release has not been announced, but it remains a possibility.
Metatrone has reawakened after 10 years and is back in the game. “Sangueacqua” may not be a sensational comeback, but it contributes significantly to their long history. In a much more refined and precise way, the album strikes a balance between what’s expected of the band and their anticipated evolution. In that sense, the album doesn’t disappoint at all.
Here’s the music video released for the track “Facsimile,” and of course, as usual, we’re also including Metatrone’s social media links so you can follow them closely and see what they’re up to…
https://www.facebook.com/metatroneband
https://www.instagram.com/metatrone_official
