A NIGHT AT THE OPERA

I'm certainly not the biggest fan of this band, in fact I only listen to "Imaginations From The Other Side" anymore as I feel it's by far their best. Having said that, these guys are pros and everything i've heard from them i've enjoyed somewhat. And this is no exception. This is perhaps their most Symphonic and Progressive album and I applaud them for changing gears here.

"Precious Jerusalem" opens with drums as these double tracked vocals with guitars kick in. Not a fan of this song or the next one called "Battlefield".The latter kicks in quickly with urgant vocals. "Under The Ice" might be my favourite. I like the guitar early on. Great sounding instrumental as well after 3 1/2 minutes. "Sadly Sings Destiny" has a cool guitar intro then a barrage of drums joins in.Vocals follow.Good song. "The Maiden And The Minstrel Knight" is mellow with reserved vocals. A Classical vibe here too. It kicks in before 3 1/2 minutes.

"Wait For An Answer" hits the ground running. Some killer guitar 4 1/2 minutes in then the vocals return. "The Soulforged" is more the like the first couple of tracks. Not a fan. "Age Of False Innocence" sounds really good when it kicks in after a minute. "Punishment Divine" is intense after 2 minutes then the guitars light it up a minute later. Good tune. "And The There Was Silence" is the over 14 minute closer. It has it's moments but I would only rate it as good. I do like when it calms down 3 minutes in with fragile vocals. It's just nice to hear for a change I guess.

Power-Metal fans probably already own this but if you don't you should check it out.