Review | Inner Vitriol – Semper Tacui

Hidden Stone Records

Inner Vitriol is a progressive-dark metal band from Bologna, Italy. The band – under the former monicker Vitriol – released two albums with the American label Melodic Revolution Records.
Now it is TIME for a next chapter with the release of ‘Semper Tacui’.

THE CONCEPT

‘Semper Tacui’ is a concept album centered on Time. It is inspired by the graffiti found in the prison cells of Palazzo Chiaromonte-Steri in Palermo, which housed the Holy Inquisition from 1487 to 1782, an institution that sought to suppress divergent thought through imprisonment, torture, and death, targeting those labeled simply as “heretics”. In this sense, ‘Semper Tacui’, which literally means ‘I have always remained silent’, becomes a profound way of stating that, despite the torture and the grip of Time, I have remained faithful to myself, to my identity, and to my ideals.

THE MUSIC

Now, talking about the music of this band. This album has been produced very well. Recorded at the Black Crow Recording Studio in Bologna, mixed by Marco Barusso (Lacuna Coil) and mastered by Marco D’Agostino (Lacuna Coil, Folkstone).

The record features some guest vocal appearances by two iconic figures of international progressive metal: Geoff Tate (former Queensrÿche), and Andy Kuntz (Vanden Plas).

In itself, there is little left to the imagination when singers like Tate and Kuntz share their talents on an album by this band. So let’s be brief and to the point about this album. Inner Vitriol has managed to compose six strong songs.

Fans of progressive metal will therefore be able to indulge themselves in the sounds of these songs. And let’s hope that the band will also appear live on stage to reinforce this work frequently. Because with this quality, you simply deserve to show off your skills in as many places as possible.

MASTERMIND

Gabriele Gozzi is an excellent singer who is complemented by the aforementioned gentlemen. Guitarist Michele Di Lauro has laid down some heavy parts on ‘Semper Tacui’,as well as some cool solos. The mastermind behind the band, Francesco Lombardo, is responsible for bass, keyboards, and spoken voice on this album, as well as the music and lyrics. Michele Panepinto has laid down a solid drum foundation for the rest of the band.

It is definitely recommended to listen to ‘Semper Tacui’ from start to finish because it is not exactly light listening and all the songs are connected and carefully chosen in this order.

INNER VITRIOL – THE CONCLUSION

The conclusion is that Inner Vitriol has managed to record an excellent progressive album. This album will delight many fans of the genre. The band has what it takes to become a big name. One to keep an eye on.

Release date: 20 March 2026