RHAPSODY OF FIRE - The Frozen Tears Of Angels

Ι don’t think that Rhapsody (or Rhapsody Of Fire, whatever you call them) need some introduction, not for the Power Metal fans anyway, for those not familiar with their sound, Rhapsody are the band that defined a new term in Heavy metal called “Hollywood metal” and that’s because of their movie soundtrack-like sound mixed with neoclassical heavy metal along with the extensive use of Sword and sorcery lyrical concept. Who doesn’t remember the amazing “Legendary Tales” which stunned many matalheads (including me) by the time it was released in 1997? Personally after their third release “Dawn Of Victory” of 2000 I stopped following Rhapsody since their music became more instrumental and less metal, something that I didn’t like at the time. Fortunately with the release of “The Frozen Tears Of Angels” things are different and Rhapsody return to claim their rightful throne with the sound that established them as a name on the metal scene. I really thing that this one is their best release after “Dawn Of Victory”!
\r\nFirst thing that I noticed when I listened to the album for the first time was the return of Luca Turilli’s neoclassical guitar themes something that was kind of absent on their previous albums. Another impressive element is that the guitars seem to lead the way here making the album not only more metal but also more melodic creating a powerful sound!
\r\nFabio Leone’s voice is in a very good shape giving out in the best way the feeling of magic that surrounds the whole album.  Lyric wise “The Frozen Tears Of Angels” is continuing the “Dark Secret Saga” that began in their previous albums being the third chapter of that magnificent epic while the excellent production along with Christopher Lee’s stunning voice are just the final touches to an astonishing painting of might and magic!
\r\nPersonally, I couldn’t imagine of a better comeback!
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\r\nDimitris Karantounias\r\n