Review: 7Keys Delivers Instrumental Power with Debut Album Æther
Portuguese melodic metal act 7Keys has arrived with their debut album Æther, delivering a thrilling instrumental experience that feels as epic as it is introspective. Conceived by guitarist Márcio Teixeira and bassist Igor Rodrigues, this album is a testament to both technical skill and a dedication to melody that resonates well beyond lyrics. Without a vocalist, 7Keys relies on sheer musicality to convey emotion and intensity, and Æther does just that, making it a notable addition to the world of instrumental metal.
The origins of 7Keys trace back to Teixeira’s early passion for heavy metal. After a journey that began at six years old and spanned years of self-taught guitar practice, he eventually sought guidance from guitar virtuoso Paulo Barros. Through Barros, Teixeira not only sharpened his skill but also met Rodrigues, 7Keys’ bassist, with whom he began composing music that merges aggressive riffs with deep melodic undercurrents. Together, they envisioned a sound that would go beyond the traditional structure of metal bands, and after struggling to find the right vocalist, they made the bold choice to release an instrumental record.
Teixeira’s guitar work shines throughout Æther. His solos are precise yet brimming with emotional depth, merging the technical with the evocative. Tracks like “Echoes of the Abyss” and “Stormbound” exemplify this, as he creates waves of melody that feel both familiar and fresh. Rodrigues’ bass lines provide the perfect grounding force, adding a dark resonance that deepens the album’s impact. Each track becomes a journey of its own, with intricate harmonies that carry listeners from high-energy riffs to atmospheric, almost ethereal soundscapes.
Notably, 7Keys’ lineup expanded with Gabriel Pereira, another talented guitarist brought into the fold through Teixeira’s connection with Barros. Pereira’s contribution adds a new layer to the band’s sound, enabling dual guitar harmonies that mirror the melodic interplay of legendary bands like Iron Maiden and Avenged Sevenfold. Tracks like “Celestial Vanguard” and “Aether’s Lament” showcase this dynamic beautifully, creating powerful guitar duels that hit hard without overwhelming the listener.
Recorded at Rec’n’Roll Studio and produced by Luís and Paulo Barros, Æther is a finely polished debut. The production is crisp and balanced, allowing each instrument to shine without sacrificing the raw energy that defines 7Keys’ sound. In every track, there’s a sense of careful curation—each note, each transition, feels purposeful, reflecting the band’s commitment to a sound that is as expressive as it is technically brilliant.
Despite the instrumental nature of the album, Æther tells a vivid story. Each track is a chapter in the band’s journey, woven together to create an experience that feels cinematic. There’s a clear intention behind every composition, making Æther much more than background music. It’s an album that demands attention, captivating listeners with its melodies and immersing them in the world of 7Keys.
While the band continues its search for the perfect vocalist, Æther stands as a remarkable achievement in the instrumental metal scene. It introduces 7Keys as a powerful, ambitious force, unafraid to defy convention and committed to pushing their sound forward. Æther is only the beginning, and if this debut is any indication, 7Keys has a promising future in heavy
