THE BLACK HALO

A heroic expansion of everything that makes Kamelot fun to listen to: big, epic metal riffs, memorable vocals, symphonic interludes, infectious lyrics, and dynamic compositions that will leave the listener screamer along with clenched fists one moment and directing orchestral balladry the next-- "Black Halo" is outstanding!

Don't be mislead by my fan-boyish praise... this album is filled with prog-metal cheese that stinks almost as much as the limburgerish Rhapsody; however, every time I start this album I finish it, and it is just as good each time. Singing along to Khan (and Satan, for a few delightful moments) is great fun, as is trying to keep pace with Youngblood's outstanding fretwork. The frequently religious lyrics are usually quite scathing, which simply sweetens the deal for me.

All in all, "Black Halo" is a gem of progressive-metal fun, simultaneously serious and tongue-in-cheek but always a powerful listen. It won't disappoint!

Songwriting 4 Instrumental Performances 4 Lyrics/Vocals 4 Style/Emotion/Replay 5