If you guys like this you should also check the new Arthemis album Black Society. Both bands share the same vocalist and guitar player. The changes that are present on Master OF Illusion can also be found in Black Society. More melody, diversity in the songwriting, toned down speed, a bit of hard rock as well etc. I think the last Arthemis is the best thing they've ever released and I would score it 85, considering the most I would give their older albums was 55 it's a big improvement. Their usual italian power/speed style (which I detest) is present no more which makes each song immediately recognizable.
As for the new PQ.... well, what I considered an average band before have released one of the best pm albums this year. What Marty says here sums up the album pretty well and it's exactly why I like this so much. I hope they continue in this direction.
Quote:
Ever since their melodic speed metal opus Neverworld, Power Quest has been drifting further and further away from speedy melodic power metal and incorporating more of a melodic heavy metal style into their sound. They have even "softened" their sound on occasion and with the trademark rich melodic vocals of Alessio Garavello, drifts more into melodic AOR territory.
), ending up thinking it was ok but a fairly average power metal album and it collected dust on my shelves and I kind of forgot about the band.. but the one is a whole new beast. I happened to hear it a week ago and I found it much heavier with some almost AOR-ish moments. The songs are way catchier, too. Definitely a good 2008 choice for power metal fans.