After Stratovarius have already impressively demonstrated to Polaris that they can continue to at least the same level without Tolkki, the expectation for Elysium was correspondingly high. And disappointed do you become in any way. Stratovarius serve exactly the tracks in the way we know and love and refine their style with their slight progressive influences that enrich the sound of the band on. - Darkest Hours: Is a typical opener, a bit slower than a usual opening track of the band, but with a great chorus and immediately addictive 9/10 - Under Flaming Skies: Another up-tempo song, typical of the band, maybe a little too simple, but again with a great chorus 8/10 - Infernal Maze: begins ballad, then suddenly pompous and then pivots about the up-tempo song with absolutely awesome überragendem Solo. An unusual song and maybe because of that as well. A highlight of the plate 10/10 - Fairness Justified: A mid-tempo tampers with massive choir in the chorus. Absolutely convincing and the next highlight 10/10 - The Game Never Ends: The next up-tempo hammer with good mood guarantee 9/10 - Lifetime in a Moment: starts with an interesting latainischen chorale. In sum, one could let go through the song as a ballad. To me it seems long winded and can not keep up with the high level of the other songs. 5/10 - Move the Mountain: one of the best ballads of the band. The next highlight 10/10 - Event Horizon: and again up-tempo. Accustomed good, but not outstanding 8/10 - Elysium: The last song is an epic 18 minutes and normally I like all Strato epics. Always among the best songs of the band. Elysium is unfortunately long-winded, it happens too little for such a long song, as can also the pompous finale, which is reminiscent of Elements Part 1 times, tear not much. 5/10
Makes a total of 74/90 points or converted 4 stars!
Conclusion: Stratovarius remain true to themselves and Elysium can maintain the high standard of Polaris loose, even if two songs have somewhat long-winded and boring for my taste and detract from the overall impression a bit. A BUY recommendation of course there are still unlimited. A Melodic Power Metal compulsory purchase,
