22/12/03

STRATOVARIUS / ELEMENT PT. 2

When I reviewed Elements Pt.1 in February of this year (2003) I said "I hope part 2 is not too far away and that it’s as good as part 1", well it wasn’t and it is.

Finland’s finest have been very busy this year, not only have they finished part 2 they have managed to take Elements on a world tour as well but that hasn’t lowered the quality control one bit, the music is still top quality Euro Metal at its best. The track "Alpha & Omega" kicks off in fine style and the improvisional interplay between the guitars and keyboards of Timmo Tolkki and Jen Johansen is both impressive and imaginative and a joy to listen to.

This is followed by "Walk To My Own Song" the first single off the album and proves that Stratovarius can write concise Progressive Metal songs with catchy hooks, "I’m Still Alive" is a speed demon of a song with its foot down to the floor with no intent of letting up until it’s all over. "Awaken The Beast" is a slower, heavier song but despite being a lumbering giant it’s surprisingly agile in places. No CD by Stratovarius would be complete without a power ballad or two and this one is no exception, "Luminous" has a fragile beauty about it that is hard to ignore.

This CD proves that Stratovarius are a world class band that cannot be ignored any longer.

DOWNLOAD : "I Walk To My Own Song" from the bands site above.