The sixth studio long-player from Netherlands-based symphonic rock outfit
Within Temptation picks right up where 2011's generally well-received conceptual outing
Unforgiving left off, expanding on the group's penchant for stylistic elasticity while maintaining a foundation of solid songwriting and engaging narrative. The appropriately named
Hydra (the multi-headed monster of myth reflects the group's ability to juggle multiple musical genres) includes guest appearances from
Killswitch Engage vocalist
Howard Jones, rapper
Xzibit, ex-
Nightwish vocalist
Tarja Turunen, and
Soul Asylum vocalist
Dave Pirner, and features the singles "Paradise (What About Us?)" and "Dangerous." [A two-CD version added a book.] ~ James Christopher Monger