Emi - Paradisus (2026)

Paradisus is Emi's debut album, created in collaboration with his good friend and vocalist røseji. This concept album is his personal retelling of the Garden of Eden, and it took two years to make.

The album spans a wide range of soundscapes and genres, shifting from heavy rock influenced by Alter Bridge and Evanescence to Opeth‑ and Dream Theater‑style ballads, high‑energy alt‑rock, and even 8‑string riff‑driven tracks. Emi draws inspiration from many corners of music, especially pieces that create immersive, atmospheric experiences, and aims to honour those influences while bringing a distinct personal voice to the project.

He chose to collaborate with røseji, an electronic dance‑pop artist who also draws from alternative music and culture. Emi wanted to fully embrace her vocal style and musicianship. As the album took shape, røseji crafted all vocal melodies and lyrics, with Emi providing the story and occasional guidance on harmonies or specific lines.

Paradisus comprises 7 songs for 45 minutes of music. Where the Water Gleams opens with a tasty bass riff followed by inspired drums. The track explodes with a high-gain guitar. I love the contrast between the calm vocals and the heavy music, very 90s, with a fantastic chorus. This is probably my favourite track on the album, if I have to choose one. Beautiful Stranger is more relaxed in his intro, before the electric guitar comes in. I can hear a Mark Tremonti influence on this one; the riffs could be coming from his guitar. Another very cool song. 

So Divine is a ballad, and I find it difficult to put it in a box as it's got 90s vibes but also prog elements and pop vocals. A very interesting one, definitely. Speaking of prog bits, I love the drumming and the energy of the following Evermine (check out the break at 2.30, followed by a great solo). 

Great chorus and classy arrangement on Born Again (In Bloom) before the two long songs at the end of the album. Carry Me, I surrender is 9 minutes long and the title track is almost 12! The first one has a slow start before a high-octane riff. The vocals are extremely captivating and I love the general atmosphere of the song, which connects with Paradisus, with a pure prog metal start. The song reminds me of Fates Warning, and it's got lots of tasty details and memorable moments (I love the chorus, and the solo is fantastic, to mention two of them).

Paradisus is a very interesting album, enjoyable from start to finish, and amazingly performed, arranged, and produced. If you are into alternative metal (with gentle vocals) and you like prog bits, this is the album for you. I really enjoyed the listening, give it a go and follow the two artists as well.

Emi's Instagram page
røseji's Instagram page