By far my favorite album by Blind Guardian, if not just in
general. This album, to me, is the highest point of Blind Guardian's career to
date. It has everything you could want in a Tolkien inspired, fantasy laden,
power metal opus. Listening to this album as a whole is the best way to
experience the full effect of the album as the interludes by themselves seem
non-essential, but they are by no means filler. The sound BG cemented on their
previous album "Imaginations From the Other Side" continues onto this
release, but the orchestral and operatic sound feels more mature and focused.
Kürsch's vocals feel as though they are telling the story of "The
Silmarillion" without ever having to had read the book in the first place.
The music creates a specific atmosphere for each song, very much how a novel
progresses from chapter to chapter. "Into the Storm" offers the
classic speed metal sound Blind Guardian built their legacy upon, while
"Nightfall" has a progressive element to its structure that builds
into an explosive chorus. "Noldor (Dead Winter Reigns)" is a
wonderful ballad that is as dark as it is comforting to listen to, while
"Mirror Mirror" picks things up with a big chorus over a backdrop of
fun and catchy keyboards. "Thorn", which is my darkhorse for runner
up on this album, another ballad, but the build up to the first chorus always
gives me goosebumps. Last, but not least, "Time Stands Still (At the Iron
Hill)". Top three Blind Guardian songs of all time hands down. Just listen
to it. You'll understand. Final verdict: Get this album, now.
Highlights (Press Play and enjoy) "Nightfall",
Into the Storm", "Time Stands Still (At the Iron Hill)",
"Thorn"
Rating: 5
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