EYE OF MELIAN, the Dutch symphonic metal project led by DELAIN guitarist Martijn Westerholt, has released their sophomore album 'Forest of Forgetting'.

The long-awaited follow-up to their debut album 'Legends of Light', 'Forest of Forgetting' is a lavish and sparkling collection of orchestral balladry that showcases vocalist Johanna Kurkela's sweet melodies.

Featuring a range of folk-inspired instrumentation and special guests including NIGHTWISH alum Troy Donockley, the album eschews heaviness in favor of opulent storytelling.

The album's themes of fantasy and imagination are deeply rooted in Westerholt's vision for EYE OF MELIAN as a musical escape from the harsh realities of the world.

With its lush soundscapes and sweeping arrangements, 'Forest of Forgetting' is an immersive experience that invites listeners to step into its enchanted realm.

Key tracks on the album include "Elixir of Night", "Dawn of Avatars", and the short but perfectly formed "Nepenthe".

The album concludes with a cover of Bruce Dickinson's "Tears of the Dragon", which Westerholt has reimagined as an iridescent fever dream.

While some listeners may find the album's serene and magical atmosphere at odds with the darker times we're living in, 'Forest of Forgetting' is sure to captivate fans of symphonic metal and fantasy film scores.

With its expertly crafted arrangements and vocalist Kurkela's soaring vocals, EYE OF MELIAN has once again demonstrated their ability to craft beautiful music that transports listeners to another world.