Swedish symphonic metal band Therion celebrated nearly four decades of music with Con Orquesta, a live album documenting their 2024 sold-out concert in Mexico City. Teaming up with the Orquesta Sinfónica Nacional de México, the band presented orchestrated reinterpretations of their repertoire, transforming their trademark metal sound with elaborate symphonic arrangements.
The project went beyond simply adding orchestra to the band's instruments. Founding member Christofer Johnsson worked closely with conductor Rodrigo Cadet and composer Bernardo Lorentze to reimagine songs with new intros, interludes, and arrangements. This collaborative effort allowed the orchestra's cultural identity and energetic style to come through, creating a vibrant exchange with the audience.
Con Orquesta serves as a comprehensive retrospective, featuring 20 tracks that span Therion's career, including well-known pieces like "The Blood of Kingu" and "Son of the Staves of Time." The performances highlight dramatic vocal contributions and blend symphonic and metal elements with diverse influences, such as Latin rhythms and classic rock grandeur.
Since their early days rooted in death metal, Therion has evolved into a band known for combining metal with orchestral grandeur and rich theatricality. This release underscores their dynamic growth and continued relevance, delivering a compelling experience for long-time fans and showcasing the band's unique blend of heavy and symphonic music on an impressive stage production.