Artist: Stratovarius
Label: Noise Records
Release Date: 1997
Rating: 4 Skulls
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Title: Visions Artist: Stratovarius Label: Noise Records Release Date: 1997 Rating: 4 Skulls |
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Kefka X's Review:
Disputably considered the cusp of the band's discography, Visions is a favorite of mine and one that tends to stay in circulation in my Explorer's changer, being blared at full volume to get a rise out of the thuggish blokes cowering feet below me (yes, even in real-life experiences, Kefka X is truly a megalomaniac). Stratovarius has always been a top-tier name in power metal, especially when taking the reins in heavy metal's headlines (Timo's behavior last year was a bit...puzzling [is that blood on your face?], and wasn't there a female singer at one point?). All atrocities aside, the appeal in Stratovarius lies in its anthemic, yet somber style of power metal. In an analogy, I'd relate them to the latest Wonka candy.Speaking of anthems, the album shoots out three from the start with the striding "The Kiss Of Judas," followed by the galloping feet of "Black Diamond" and rushing with the tsunami of "Forever Free," the last of which I'd list as one of my top 20 heavy metal songs of all time. Alongside the panic-stricken mania of "Black Diamond," "Forever Free" stands tall as the band's strongest song, showcasing the band's affinity with outstanding solos, thundering vocal harmonies and a mechanical rhythm section. It's so promising and cheerful it makes the ultra-depressing "Before the Winter" that follows an elegy.
Unfortunately for Visions, the album starts off stronger than it ends, and halfway into the experience the caffeine buzz dies and the exhaustion kicks in. I find this a typical symptom of many power metal albums. But for the first five songs, Visions is a clinic of some of the most show-'em-how-it's-done power metal you'll hear. And that makes for a hell of an E.P.
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