LEGENDS OF THE SHIRES

I am definitely a bit ashamed to admit that I have not heard of, let alone listened to, Threshold until just a few weeks ago. Though better late than never I suppose. And with that, Legends of the Shires, Threshold's 2017 release, was definitely a fantastic way to get acquainted. This record is symphonic power prog metal that is absolutely both fun and moving.

There is nothing revolutionary or innovative about the music here but that doesn't seem to be necessary given how engaging the riffs, synths, and guitar leads are. The performance by vocalist Glynn Morgan who has returned to the group after a two-decade or so hiatus is by far the highlight of the album. In just a few listens, his melodies and powerful delivery will be stuck in your head long after.

The album's main flaw is its length. As the album progresses, it has less and less unique music to convey. To borrow a phrase from the Jewish Passover Seder ceremony, had the record ended after 'The Shite Pt. 2' 'it would have been enough for us''