THE ODYSSEY

The Odyssey is an astounding album from start to finish. I believe this album even outdoes The Divine Wings... for these following reasons. First of all, the production has never been better and the production of a power-metal album does a lot to help or hinder it's overall appeal. Secondly, in my controversial opinion, The Odyssey(the song) is better than the 20 minute epic of The Divine Wings. It starts out with a stunning part-orchestral introduction that lasts for around 5 minutes and then proceeds into one of the greatest epics ever created. I don't want to spoil the rest of the song for any of you so I will keep the rest of what I wish to say about this song unsaid, but I can almost guarantee that you won't be disappointed after hearing it. And the other factor that really appeals to me about this album is the variety of Russell Allen's voice. In the first song, Inferno, he starts out by emitting growl-like vocals that fit in perfectly with the speed metal instrumentation. But when the song gets to the chorus, you get to hear another, cleaner side of Allen's voice that sounds just as good. Also, I believe that few singers can match Allen's soft voice, which he wonderfully displays in parts of the previously mentioned Odyssey. I think any fan of music would do him/herself a tremendous favor by purchasing this amazing album, so you should too!

P.S. -Michael Romeo is among the best metal guitarists out there.