Blind Guardian: Somewhere Far Beyond

Some herald this as Blind Guardian's magnum opus; the best of their storied legacy. While I will not dispute that because I think they are right, this is still not my favorite Blind Guardian album. That being said, "Somewhere Far Beyond" is an absolute juggernaut of power metal glory. The sound that Blind Guardian had sought to mold as their own has finally come together as the final product they set out to create. Hansi's vocals are on a transcendental level that many could only aspire to replicate. The riffs on this album create so many different moods and atmospheres that it's hard to not to marvel at the song writing. Songs like like "Time what is time" and "Journey Through the Dark", blast away as pure speed metal that draws upon powerful melodies and sensational solos. But, the real magic is how BG can drastically alter their sound and abruptly change the atmosphere so smoothly as the album transitions forward. "The Quest for Tanelorn" feels almost like early 80's metal or 70's hard rock, while the track, "The Bard's Song - The Hobbit" has folk elements woven into its structure. It would be hard to point out a less than stellar song on this album (not including the covers, which I feel are done well, but seem like add-ons at the end of the day). Do not pass on this album. You won’t' regret it.

Highlights: "Time What is Time", "Journey Through the Dark", "Ashes to Ashes", "Theatre of Pain", "Somewhere Far Beyond"

Rating: 4.5