TWILIGHT IN OLYMPUS

It's great to hear some metal again, it seems like it's been a while.This particular abum is a little neglected in my opinion, but being wedged between "The Divine Wings Of Tragedy" and "V" maybe it's a little understandable.This record has more in common with the former then it does with the latter, it's quite heavy and goes over very well played live.

"Smoke And Mirrors" opens with that Neo Classical flavour they are known for as lots of riffs come in before the vocals arrive. The vocals sound a lot like a cross between Dickinson and Dio right there. A calm comes in at the 4 minute mark that I like before they just let it rip again. "Church Of The Machine" opens with this intense atmosphere that is broken a minute in. A nice light keyboard melody is gradually swallowed up by the heaviness that is building. Vocals after 3 minutes, and the best part of the song for me are the vocal harmonies. Lots of riffs and a great rhythm follows. This song blends into "Sonata" a beautiful and mellow piece of piano followed by guitar.This is based on a theme from "Sonata #8" in c minor by Beethoven. Yes it's an instrumental. "In The Dragon's Den" opens with pounding drums that come and go throughout. Vocals, guitar and synths are all outstanding. Fast and heavy are apt adjectives for this song.

"Through The Looking Glass-Parts I, II and III" is the epic and my favourite track by far. It opens with a solid and heavy soundscape.The piano and synths are beautiful, they are followed by reserved vocals. I love the way the piano is sprnkled in amongst the heaviness.The guitar breaks loose 6 1/2 minutes in with some tasty melodies. The vocals are great 8 minutes in as tasteful melodies are played. We get more of this the rest of the way. Nice and moving. I was moved during the final song as well something I felt was lacking on "The Divne Wings Of Tragedy". "The Relic" is another good one that opens with heavy riffs.The vocals are impressive. A scorching solo 3 1/2 minutes in as drums pound away. A powerful soundscape follows. "Orion-The Hunter" opens with the heaviest soundscape yet ! More of this later in the song. The keys are great, and check out the guitar and synths trading solos. Amazing guitar in this one. "Lady Of The Snow" opens with Eastern sounds, and they come and go. The guitar riffs start to rise out the eastern sun as they eventually go from soaring to screaming. More incredible guitar 4 minutes in. What an uplifting song.

Easily 4 stars and more enjoyable for me than "The Divine Wings Of Tragedy".