Complete success - typical Stratovarius

Hard to believe that the "old master" of the Nordic Melodic Power Metal shortly after the brilliant "Polaris" again bring forth such a successful album are capable. But it is by no means a quick shot. "Elysium" has become a perfect work, filling in vain.

The fleet opener "Darkest Hours" (already known by the same name EP) is breathed very trendy and makes Apettit to what there may still come. With "Under Burning Skies" there is still brisk and the drama increases. The exciting trip "Infernal Maze" (also on the "Darkest Hours" EP included) starts with ballad solo vocals by Kotipelto and increases ever for putting up-tempo song. "Fairness Justified" moves in midtempo and is marked by bombastic Gregorian choirs. With "The Game Never Ends" follows my favorite of the album, a typical Strato anthem in Uptempo with casual, catchy chorus. The midtempo song "Lifetime In A Moment" comes back very bombastic and therefore mystical. With "Move the Mountains" is again a quiet, touching song included, which includes a wonderfully plaintive key solo. The neoclassical embossed Speed ​​Kracher "Event Horizon" impressed by brilliant duels of keyboards and guitar. The highlight of the album eventually forming the incredible epic 18 minute title track. This treated thematically thinking about the end of life and then coming and is divided into three parts, which are the mood and very different (Part 1: mysterious, spannungsaufbauend, desperate; Part 2: alternately resigned and positively voted Parts, a total increase in pace; Part 3: Bombastic , solemn climax with brilliant guitar solos).

In summary, one can say that the band presented here in top form. The song material you notice at any time, from whom it originates, at the same time it sounds fresh and gripping. The instruments are operated with virtuosity, as one would expect from these exceptional musicians and the vocals come extremely powerful ind dynamically over. So I can only strongly recommend every lover of Melodic Power Metal this. For fans of the band, it is anyway a must buy.