GHOST OPERA

I pretty much agree with Kazansky review of this album. Something is really missing here. For the first time in 12 years Kamelot seems to be without the strong sense of direction they always had. Not that this album is bad: it is not. In fact, in a few aspects they even exceed themselves (what looked almost impossible after their two previous releases). The production is more sophisticated than ever. The instrumentation unbelievebily tight and the band (now back to a quintet with the inclusion as a full member of Oliver Palotai on keyboards), is definitly bigger than the sum of its parts. And Roy Khan is one of the most distinctive and original singers around.

So, what´s the problem? I´ll answer that with another question: where to go after a steady rising that led to a string of masterpieces of prog metal like Karma, Epica and The Black Halo? Well, I guess after so many years of forward momentum, some kind of leveling off would have to take place. The band seems uncertain for the next step and it shows on the album. Instead of goind on, they went back: short songs and not a lot to sday anymore. It seemed they just ran out of ideas after the Epica/Black Halo concept. What is a pity, since when they find a theme they can handle the story very well. Going back to 4 minute songs and without a strong theme Kamelot can not address the fantastic talents the band obviously have. Ghost Opera is pleasant, it has some nice songs. Still, songwriting wise, this is nowhere near to what they have done since Khan joined them . I hope they find their muse again and take a more challeging project again next time.

Rating: 3 stars. Good, but not essential in any way.