Metal Reviews

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Awesome! Didn't expect the review this early. That sucks about the production but nonetheless I'm fuckin' stoked for this.

Really, really looking forward to this!

I am so excited about this album. I enjoyed the last two, but I've been waiting for another Night at the Opera so I am hoping this is the next masterpiece. This review has me reeling.

Can't wait to hear this, Blind Guardian is one of my all-time favorites.

Blind Guardian has become Bland Guardian.

Looks like it is time for me to get re-acquainted with this band ! Nice review, has me feeling quite optimistic.

disappointing.

These guys have done nothing of note since Battalions of Fear.

After the first listen, I must admit that for the first time I feel somewhat underwhelmed by a Blind Guardian album. While a few more listens are required, it's definitely a step back from At the Edge of Time.
Which is a shame as I missed Hansi's voice and that guitar tone.

This album definitely requires multiple listens because there's a lot going on in some of the songs. It's like a combination of their last three albums: the production of ANATO, the progressive elements of ATITM, and the orchestral parts of ATEOT. I've listened to it about a dozen times and it's definitely another great addition to the BG catalogue. I'd rate it somewhere in the 80-85 range, however I'm pretty sure I felt the same way initially about ATEOT and now I would put that album in their top 3 (or very least top 5) so perhaps over time I'll enjoy it even more. I agree that the production is a problem, especially with the songs that have orchestration....there's just a lot of stuff being layered on top of each other. And the bass drums in particular really suffered. Listen to the chorus of The Holy Grail and all you'll hear, drum-wise, is Frederik hitting the cymbals. But I agree with Goat that the songs make up for it and it really is a great album.

Favourite songs: The Ninth Wave, At The Edge Of Time, The Holy Grail, The Throne

This album gives me goosebumps. It has been the theme album for my vacation in Cancun and has made me feel the way A Night at the Opera made me feel. That is no small task. Twilight of the Gods, Prophecies, At the Edge of Time, and Ashes of Eternity alone make this album an early favorite for album of the year. It's an album filled with hope, sacrifice, and adventure. I'm not the best lyric interpreter, but it seems to me the the Red Mirror is the last bridge between worlds and in order to break the seal a savior must begin a quest for a key, The Holy Grail, which will require an arduous journey that will test the resolve of the protagonist. Something like that anyway. Whatever the details; it is an emotionally charged epic that will have you hoping to someday see the movie. Blind Guardian have blown my mind once again and I will not miss my opportunity to see them live this time. Whatever it takes, I will be there.