KARMA

When I wrote review of Rhapsody albums, I did mention that Kamelot should be featured also in this site with the basis of Rhapsody's inclusion. And I did not follow up right after that as I subconsciously believe that Kamelot is more on symphonic power metal than in progressive rock. Nevertheless, I love the band very very much! To me, it's a kind of break enjoying the music of Kamelot music because it has energy, power and excellent melody. Even in power metal genre, Kamelot is probably the most melodic compared to other bands in the genre. And now I'm surprised and happy that this band is now featured in this site despite my doubt on "is this prog?". I am also happy to read what colleague reviewer semismart has put a good review on this album.

For me personally, Karma was my entry gate to power metal genre where I then knew bands like Helloween, Blind Guardian, Ed Guy, Tobias Samet's Avantasia, Shaman, Angra, Gamma Ray, Sonata Arctica, Stratovarius, etc.. I knew the band by accident when I was in a local CD store wanting to buy CDs but could not get what I want until someone asked me to take the CD of this album. "Nah . it's a metal band!", my comment to him. But he insisted to try. At first spin - it blew my mind man ..!! I like the opening orchestration on the powerful beat, tempo and melody of the track that follows. Yeah . it really rock! And I kept spinning the CD over and over for couple of weeks and got no indication of being bored with the music. My mind was transposed to a melodic power metal atmosphere! So, as for this review, I will put aside the "progness" of this album as I believe that Kamelot is more on power metal vein than prog.

Regalis Apertura - It's a very short symphonic orchestra that sets the overall tone of the whole album. I like it very much and I never skip this track whenever I play the CD. Having had the masterminds of power metal orchestra: Miro and Sascha Paeth, no one would argue the quality! Later, I knew that in typical power metal album there is an opening like this. It's the same case with Helloween, the pioneer.

Forever - Right after the opening light orchestra, this track blast- off with a power metal music characterized by double pedal drumming and fast speed tempo, guitar leads the melody. Wow! A wonderful opening!! This track immediately becomes my all-time favorite that I keep emulating the melody even without playing the CD. It's a very melodic track. I like the melody piece when the vocal sings "Will you revive from the chaos in my mind .." Uuuhhhh .. What a great shot !!

Wings Of Despair - This track follows in almost similar tempo with "Forever" and it has a great melody as well. Well, I like the vocal quality of Khan - It's best for this kind of music, I think.

The Spell - It's a more accessible track with great rhythm section and simpler chords selection. The simple lyrics "All my demons cast a spell" has once been used by my metal mates down here to greet one another when they meet. It's an interesting passage.

Don't You Cry - This is not the one like Guns N Roses'. And I bet you would love this very sad song dedicated to Thomas Youngblood Sr. It's a mellow and touchy song.

Karma - It brings the music back to a power metal vein. The music seems like a straight forward hard rock tune with a tasty and memorable melody. The Light I Shine On You - It's performed in similar vein as "karma" with some accentuation on guitar riffs.

Temples Of Gold - A slow rock tune in the vein of "Don't You Cry" but this time with drumming. It's a very melodic and excellent tune.

Across The Highlands - It brings the music back on track with energy in a power metal vein.

Elizabeth - It's an epic where in a way there is a blend of neo progressive style (Marillion, Pallas, etc) and power metal. It comprises three tracks: "Mirror Mirror", "Requiem For The Innocent" and "Fall From Grace" PLUS a "factory defect" (?) where at the end there is approx 7 minutes of silence. This epic is really wonderful as it has a tight structure and memorable melody. It should be enjoyed in its entirety.

Overall, I give this album a five stars rating as a masterpiece of symphonic power metal album and not a prog one. If you are not into power metal music, you may not like this album. For me, I enjoy it very very much. [Honestly, I even once had a dream during my nightsleep of watching the band on stage and I sing together while the band performing "Forever" - my favorite track. Unfortunately, it was just a dream. But, the dream itself I experienced it!] --- Hail .. GW, Indonesia.

"Who will trade his karma for my kingdom?"

Share this KAMELOT review

Social review comments () BETA

---

---

Review related links

• Send comments to Gatot
• Report this review (#33696)
• Buy KAMELOT music online with PA partners
• Show all KAMELOT MP3/Stream
• Go to KAMELOT page for videos, full discography with ratings, reviews and much more
• Go to Karma page for more details, where to buy and ratings/reviews
• Search the Forum for KAMELOT related discussions