One of our readers Tom has submitted a mini review for each of his releases. Here are his choices in reverse order.
10. Freedom Call – M.E.T.A.L
One of Germany’s most criminally underrated bands, the “Happy” Power Metal band FREEDOM CALL released a really good album this year. Chris Bay is such a good vocalist and this is the debut of their newest musicians in the band. Songs I recommend – M.E.T.A.L and 111 – The Number Of The Angels.
9. HammerFall – Dominion
I fell in love with the entire album. To me, it’s criminally underrated. Considering HAMMERFALL make Sweden Rock, it’s a great album, a golden gem. I recommend Dominion, (We Make) Sweden Rock and Testify. There are some great songs from the album.
8. DragonForce – Extreme Power Metal
Every song on this album is perfect. Power/Speed Metal at it’s finest. I love the songs Highway To Oblivion, Heart Demolition and The Last Dragonborn.
7. Insomnium – Heart Like A Grave
I had low expectations at first with this album since I’ve been a fan of INSOMNIUM for some time. I like the fact that they have Jani Liimatainen as backing vocals now in the band too, it’s the best upcoming album after their masterpiece album Winters Gate.
6. Avantasia – Moonglow
This album is just beautiful in every way. I love Tobias and the work he does with guys like Hansi. I consider most of the songs on this album pretty relaxing as well!
5. Sabaton – The Great War
SABATON have done it again, with the themes of World War 1. This album came as a surprise for me, I love Fields of Verdun, Great War and The Red Baron.
4. Beast In Black – From Hell With Love
I just love this album so god damn much and Anton’s such a brilliant song writer. Ever since he formed BEAST IN BLACK, it’s probably one of the best things he’s ever done. Yannis’ vocals, Kasperi, Anton, Mate and Atte are all talented musicians, fantastic band!
3. Twilight Force – Dawn Of The Dragonstar
Now I’m really surprised this one ended up being third for me. I didn’t expect Allyon to be such a good vocalist and the perfect replacement for Chrileon. The whole album is just beautiful, There are perfect melodies that give you that proper fantasy feel to the music! So this album is in a surprising 3rd place for me.
2. Gloryhammer – Legends from Beyond the Galactic Terrorvortex
This has to be second for me since I’ve been so addicted to Hootsforce, Siege of Dunkeld, Land of Unicorns and Masters of the Galaxy. A few brilliant songs. Is Zargothrax actually dead? Or did he just activate clone alpha one?
1. Blind Guardian’s Twilight Orchestra – Legacy of the Dark Lands
This album is just a masterpiece and it’s been the album I’ve been super excited for since August. This has to be my top favourite because I just love every single about it, the way the tracks are with narrations to Hansi’s amazing voice.
Thank you very much for submitting this great write up Tom. Have a great Christmas and New Year.
