ANTHENORA Mirrors and Screens CD

Hailing from Italy, Anthenora released their fourth full-length album, Mirrors and Screens, in November 2020 through Punishment 18 Records. This album marked a significant return for the band after a ten-year silence following their 2010 release, The Ghosts of Iwo Jima. Known for their deep roots in the Italian scene since 1989—and their well-known history as an Iron Maiden tribute band—Anthenora delivers a polished and powerful blend of Traditional Heavy Metal and Power Metal that feels both classic and refreshed. The music on Mirrors and Screens is defined by a strong Keep It True spirit, featuring the characteristic twin-guitar harmonies and galloping rhythms reminiscent of the NWOBHM era, but infused with the heavier edge of US Power Metal acts like Metal Church and Vicious Rumors. Vocalist Luigi Gigi Bonansea provides a rugged, soulful delivery that bridges the gap between hard rock grit and heavy metal intensity. Conceptually, the album is quite deep; the lyrics explore the contradictions of contemporary society, the search for truth, and the inner torment caused by our digital existence. This introspective theme is visually represented in the cover art, which features the striking sculptures of Italian artist Germana Eucalipto, symbolizing the connection between the physical world and the psychic dimension. From the energetic drive of the single 30th to more melodic moments like Bully Lover, the album maintains a high level of musicianship and maturity. For fans of traditional metal who appreciate bands that can balance old-school influences with thoughtful, modern themes, Mirrors and Screens stands as a triumphant comeback for the Piedmontese quintet.