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Z Nickname: Sandra
Full Name
Sandra
Country
Denmark
Comments: 36
View all comments posted by Sandra |
Ratings: 25
Reviews: 19
View all Ratings/Reviews posted by Sandra |
Favorite Bands
Dream Theater
Iron Maiden
Manowar
Pink Floyd
And...... (in no particular order)
Nightwish, Pain of Salvation, Vanden Plas, Symphony X, Fates Warning, Iced Earth, Slayer, AC/DC, Metallica, Anthrax, Judas Priest, Guns N´Roses, Megadeth, Rush, King Diamond, Black Sabbath, Dio, Kamelot, Sonata Arctica, Statovarius, Saxon, Rhapsody of Fire, Helloween, Avantasia, Edgy, Motörhead, UDO, Accept, D-A-D, Bon Jovi, Led Zeppelin, Alice Cooper, Scorpions, Bruce Dickinson, The Beatles, Green day, Whitesnake
..... And many other fabulous bands.
As you can see I have a very varying taste of music.
Favorite Albums
Top Ten
1. Dream Theater:Images and words + Awake (I cannot pick one)
2. Dream Theater: Scenes from a Memory
3. Pain of Salvation: Remedy Lane
4. Metallica: Master of Puppets
5. Pink Floyd: Wish You Were Here
6. Iced Earth: Something Wicked This Way Comes
7. Iron Maiden: Powerslave
8. Megadeth: Rust in Peace
9. Nightwish:Oceanborn
10. (number 10 is the open spot... soon to be filled out)
Runners up:
Judas Priest: Painkiller
Manowar: Battle Hymns
Vanden Plas: Beyond Daylight
Metallica: "The black album"
Slayer: Reign in Blood
Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon
Pink Floyd: The wall
Iron Maiden: Somewhere In Time
Symphony X: The Odyssey
Black Sabbath: Black Sabbath
About me
Hi, my name is Sandra Angelika Pudlowska, I was born in 1990 in Esbjerg, Denmark where I live. I´m half polish, half kuwaitian and a true pain in the ass for my neighbours and my mother (play it out loud !).
I´m 100% music-nerd.... movie-nerd... and also computer-nerd...I´m fascinated by computers..
I'm on my last year in high school...I love discussing politics so I´m going to study Social science in the university.
I have a passion for metal and hard rock and all of its subgenres, but I'm mostly into: Heavy, power, symphonic, trash and progressive metal.
My passion for music slowly started in my early teens, at that time I was into Pink Floyd, AC/DC, Green day and Nirvana. My passion for metal slowly started after I was blessed with Metallica's black album. Before that point I have heard of Iron maiden but I didn't listen to it.
One day The black album found its way into my good old Sony Discman, and that day was a turning point. So much energy and it was almost therapeutic. This is still the same view I have on music today; a medium to escape and forget the stressful and chaotic world we live in. Music is also my way of expressing my feelings whether I´m angry, down or happy it will always help and it will never die. Music is also a never ending source of pleasure.
Beside spending almost all my spare time on music, I like hanging out with my friends, playing guitar (the greatest instrument in the world!!), playing computer/ Playstation, webdesigning, I love cooking, watching movies, walking in nature ...the feeling of music and nature melting together is priceless and so damn therapeutic.
weird? ... well this is who I am ;)
Stay heavy and loud \m/
Sandra
Sandra's Ratings and Reviews
| Avantasia - The Scarecrow |  | | Sandra's Rating: 5.5/10
I can't find any connection at all. I had to force myself listening to this more than once - just because it's Avantasia - The Metal Opera part I and II - are genius.
However after too many chances I'm still soo disappointed and thinking what happened?
Carry me over, can't believe that Tobias put this on an album. The carry me over, carry me over, is so irritating and uninspiring - a true pain in the ass. I feel like screaming: shut up!
Highlights :
- Shelter from the rain: the closest track to power metal
- Another angel down: Actually very cool and speedy
- The toy master: Alice Cooper owns this one. His voice suits perfectly in. I agree, Alice Cooper saves the album from being a total disaster and so does Jorn Lande.
- Devil in the belfry and some parts of The Scarecrow are great too.
The fact that too many songs don't leave a more lasting impression is what makes this album just an okay/average album.
And by the end of the year a new album - well I guess it can't be worse than Carry me over
Original rating by Steen: 6.5/10
Link to original review
Other member ratings:
Craig - 7/10 - Link to review
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| Bon Jovi - Slippery When Wet |  | | Sandra's Rating: 8/10
This is CLASSIC . My favorite Bon Jovi album.
This album rocks big time and defiantly a party rocker. You can put this album on and turn up the volume as high as you can and have a blast. When you are throwing a party, and even next day, when you find yourself cleaning up with hangovers, you will still raise your hands (sorry) and sing a long, trust me ;) and the cleaning - in the Bon Jovi-ecstasy - it will take no time.
Let it Rock is so simple and yet soo cool and the keyboard in the beginning is so cool. Sing along and have fun. And yes, Richie Sambora is amazing on the guitar.
Ladies and gentlemen: Livin' on a prayer is THE ULTIMATE party song. There is nothing like Livin' on a prayer at a party, the spirit - it will never die that's for sure. Just the tense start and then "once upon a time not so long ago.." damn it's great. Have I mentioned the chorus? It sets me free ;) the baseline is also very groovy.
Social Disease, I agree, this song is a no go - nothing brilliant - A little bit too monotone for my taste and not a real rocker.
Wanted Dead or alive - "Sometimes you tell the day by the bottle that you drink" - I love it and cannot help singing a long ;) The western feeling ahh - I love the acoustic guitar. Jon's voice is amazing; raw and yet clear. The breakthrough with the guitar solo is incredible.
Raise your hands and You give love a bad name, are two great rockers and they will improve your mood instantly.
Without love is a lovely song and one thing that really impresses me is the fact that they have balls to always show their feelings.
I'd die for you: love this song, and so does my girl heart. The keyboard is so 80ties and great and the lyric :)
Never say goodbye goes also straight into my girl heart - quite depressing. Some would say it's kinda cheesy, but it really isn't - guess it's just because I'm a girl?
Wild in the streets, free-minded is the keyword - brilliant song.
Outstanding hard rock album - that's for sure.
Original rating by Tommy: 8/10
Link to original review
Other member ratings:
notrap - 10/10 - Link to review
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| Dream Theater - A Change of Seasons |  | | Sandra's Rating: 10/10
One of my favorite DT songs. Every time I hear the guitar in the beginning, I get this special feeling in my stomach and it's like the world stops spinning for a while...
Song: 10/10 indeed.
Original rating by Yoni: 10/10
Link to original review
Other member ratings:
Steen - 10/10 - Link to review
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| Dream Theater - Awake |  | | Sandra's Rating: 10/10
This was my first DT album. I found it in a second hand CD-shop in my hometown. I was just walking around searching for something different. Then I saw this album, I had to have it because I thought that the cover was inspired by Salvador Dali, who I admire. When I went home and gave it a spin I was very confused, because it was just way too complicated for my ears. However, a year later I went through my CD's and I gave it a chance. the best decision I ever made... Musically... and a decision I sometimes believe has changed my life. Today 3 years later DT is my all time favorite band.
The lyrics are probably the best from Dream Theater - a true piece of art... And the music. there is so much into it.
The Mirror, Voices, scarred and space-dye-west are my favorites; however, every single song is beyond belief, 11 songs is pretty much, however, there isn't a track which doesn't belong on this album, and I use to be critical when a band makes albums containing more than 8-9 tracks.. But Awake is perfect.
I listen to this album when I fell a bit strange/down. Melancholic as Tommy says. it's just perfect for this state of mind. and especially on a Sunday morning. DT creates music which I find very special. Their music makes me think about life, so it is music with something rare into it and I find this album very special and I can say it has shaped me into the person I am. Listening to this album makes me feel like I reaching a higher level.so it is kinda deep ;)
And yes, the guitar solo in the end of Voices is unbelievable and so not expected when you hear it for the first time. So tight and overwhelming. And I just love when James sings: "I'm lying here in bed swear my skin is inside out, just another morning,seen my diary on the newsstand, seems we've lost the truth to quicksand, it's a shame no one is praying, cause these voices in my head keep saying ."
I found this analysis of Voices and I remember it was quite interesting reading, so here is the link:
http://www.linusakesson.net/music/voices/index.php
"Awake combines emotionalism, technicality and unique captivating moods in one grandiose effort"
I couldn't have described it better myself.
Original rating by Tommy: 9.5/10
Link to original review
Other member ratings:
Steen - 9.5/10 - Link to review
ProfessorShred - 9/10 - Link to review
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| Dream Theater - Black Clouds And Silver Linings |  | | Sandra's Rating: 8.5/10
I have been waiting and waiting for this album and thinking about it a lot, and the day I got it I was totally ecstatic... and still am :)
The gothic tone in the beginning ofA Nightmare to Remember and the intense drumming really sets a very tense atmosphere and you don't know what is coming next. I really like when the song turns more silent... the mid-section is so delightful. The chorus is very well written: Hopelessly drifting bathing in beautiful agony, I'm endlessly falling Lost in this wonderful misery, in peaceful sedation I lay half awake .
Yes, A Rite of Passage was a very good pick as single, that for sure. The riff in the chorus is so cool, very playful and I don't know exotic, refreshing and mystical? :) The chorus is just spot on, actually most of the choruses on the album have something to offer and are very catchy.. this one is put together in a awesome way. Yeah, the guitar solo breakthrough is so cool Petrucci owns and Rudess is very teasing on the keys.
Wither: ...no words just <3 .well I love this song, it is so beautiful. Very well written, emotional, delicate and the line: I drown in hesitation, my words come crashing down is splendid! The mid section is just...wow. The guitar solo is not over the top, it fits perfectly in. I can't resist the temptation too :)
The voice over thing in The Shattered Fortress makes the song kind of deeper, it's hard to explain, but there is something to it... Something mentally.
I think it's nice the fact that The Best of times is a "joyful" song, a celebration of a beloved person - although it starts out gloomy with the piano, guitar and then the violin...Then the speediness of the guitar and the drums hits you and you feel alive and awake. The drumming is very diverse and very exciting. But Tommy is right, the song gets a bit stretched out ... but the fact that it is a loving memory sets some limits for the lyric. However, it's only the lyric; their skills on the instruments are far out of this world.
The Count of Tuscany is so well put together; it's one of my faves on the album. Just the intro...when I heard it, I knew it was going to be something special. The chorus makes the song very strong and memorable and the silent psychedelic section is so Pink Floyd, it instantly reminded me of the song Echoes (check it out, it's so freaky... in a fantastic way), not in a copy way, however quite innovative and very interesting. The Acoustic guitar in the last "section" of the song is very well fitting, cozy and yet refreshing.
Just think about it: it isn't every band that can enclose an instrumental version, which is like a gift send from heaven to me :D however, Dream Theater can, and they know it. The instrumental is very interesting too, it's only a pleasure to be "allowed" to get deeper into each instrument and discover some new angles... and also a very good opportunity for some DT- Karaoke ;)The Cover CD is also like candy for my ears.
Okay, I am very positive about this release, well Dream Theater is my all time favorite band so that's the answer...however, I know what DT are capable of and they can do more than this, but this is an outstanding release.
Yes, when Kevin was in the band everything was genius, but I don't want to think about it... because we also have to appreciate what we have now and it's many years since Kevin left the band... and DT isn't just about Kevin Moore and his skills, it takes a whole band to create music, that overwhelms you like you didn't thought you could be overwhelmed, I'm not talking about this album specific... Think about Scenes From A Memory, I believe that Jordan Rudess proved his skills on that album - and what about Six degrees of Inner Turbulence?? I don't think you can "blame" one man. That's just my opinion.
I agree with Tommy it is 8.5
Original rating by Tommy: 8.5/10
Link to original review
Other member ratings:
Little Drummer Boy - 8/10 - Link to review
Dark Lord - 8.5/10 - Link to review
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| Dream Theater - Images And Words | |
| Dream Theater - Metropolis Pt.2: Scenes From A Memory |  | | Sandra's Rating: 10/10
The best way of experiencing this album is in the evening with the lights out and a candle or two, while lying in bed. It is the ultimate way of experiencing all the moods captured into this essential album. It just fits my "normal evening mood" and it is often found in my stereo at this time, where "awake" is more likely played on a melancholic Sunday morning and "Images and Words" outside in nature nearby the ocean, at my favorite place in my hometown ... that's how it works for me when talking about getting the most out of these three indescribable albums. It is very hard to pick just one as my favorite DT album, especially between these three, because every single DT album means something special to me. . . How can I choose a piece of my heart and soul as "my favorite?"
Home is one of my DT favorites. The beginning is very mysterious and very oriental, like something taken out of a dream ... and then it accelerates until you're suddenly hit by the heaviness of the guitar.
"Decadent scenes from my memory "and "... her ecstasy means so much to me...) Are divine lines... it is as if the story goes straight in to the bones. The lyrics are unique, and very passionate throughout the album.
The Dance of Eternity is so playful, heavy, emotional and ... funny ;) they really have a great sense of humor... although it is a depressing story. So many layers, so complex.
The piano melody in One Last Time, is so breathtaking beautiful and I LOVE the chorus.
Finally free is very dramatic and so wonderful. It is flowing with emotionalism and the chorus makes me fell alive in a silent way. And I love the repeating of the "one last time "chorus in the middle.
The album ends in a very odd way...I'm left with a strange empty feeling and a bit of pain... it makes me wonder: what just happened?
Scenes from a memory - oh, just the title of the album does something to my stomach; it fits perfectly to Dream Theater...yeah, and of course the tragic story.
It's a l0/l0 if I don't look at the previous albums, and 9, 9/l0 if I compare it to Awake and Images and Words... I need a larger scale ;)
Original rating by Tommy: 10/10
Link to original review
Other member ratings:
Steen - 9/10 - Link to review
notrap - 8/10 - Link to review
bosambo - 10/10 - Link to review
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| Iced Earth - Something Wicked This Way Comes |  | | Sandra's Rating: 10/10
First of all: what a superb production, it's such a pleasure to spin this album out loud. It's intense but all elements are well balanced and crystal-clear ... not messy at all. Many times I have found myself thinking:"Wow, it really is amazing" although I have listen to this album so many times. It's defiantly something I can hear over and over again for the rest of my life without losing any interest.
Something Wicked This Way Comes stands as one of my favorite Power Metal albums, with the many right in your face riffs and the amazing diverse vocals from Matthew Barlow - he can do everything, he has one of the best vocals in metal in my opinion. I love the way Iced Earth combines power, trash, classic and some more progressive metal elements in one magnificent innovative effort ... and not to be forgotten; all the contrasts and the mind-blowing dynamic drumming.
The critical view on the society and life is something that I also find very interesting and the lyrics are very well written and very very easy to relate to.
Consequences, is one of my favorites, the calm vocals and the riffs on the acoustic guitar are amazing. The high pitched vocal in the end is so incredible... perfect timing - and that's very important!
Disciples of the Lie, is so great not only musically but also lyrically and very intense drumming from the beginning as a machinegun ...So much anger.
Watching Me is so sad but, it has healing powers. I love the contrast between the calm verse and the powerful chorus.
Check out: The Coming Curse, a true piece of art.
Amazing album with l3 tracks; that's a lot, however, they are all fantastic. I find it hard to point out something negative as Tommy also does, however, if I REALLY have to do it, then it would be "My Own Savior", because the chorus gets a bit I don't know :S, but I don't like the:"my sadness, my madness, I'm my own savior" but that's only a weird detail :)
Musically 9, 5/l0 and my personal relationship with the lyrics lift it up to l0.
Original rating by Tommy: 10/10
Link to original review
Other member ratings:
No ratings by other members
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| Iron Maiden - Somewhere In Time |  | | Sandra's Rating: 9/10
I totally agree - it is classic. I believe this was one of my first Maiden albums too, with Powerslave... Somewhere in Time is one of their best!
The guitar solo in the beginning of Deja vu is mesmerizing - every single time I hear it, it is as if I'm drifting off to another state of mind.
There is nothing left to say, Tommy has said it all - if you already haven't then buy it, you wont be disappointed, It rocks.
By the way, put this album in your stereo... cleaning is never boring when Iron Maiden is spinning... especially this spectacular album.
Original rating by Tommy: 9/10
Link to original review
Other member ratings:
notrap - 10/10 - Link to review
Dark Lord - 9/10 - Link to review
Steen - 8.5/10 - Link to review
ProfessorShred - 9.5/10 - Link to review
LemmingDeMerciless - 9/10 - Link to review
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| Kamelot - Epica |  | | Sandra's Rating: 8.5/10
Sandra has not added a review.
Original rating by Tommy: 8.5/10
Link to original review
Other member ratings:
No ratings by other members
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| Manowar - Battle Hymns |  | | Sandra's Rating: 9/10
Battle Hymns is my favorite album by Manowar. When I listen to Manowar I feel as if I can fight all the crap we face in life, all the power from the band goes straight into my blood. I have many times found my power in Battle Hymns... and the suffering friends... Tell me about It ... I can't sit down and be calm when this album is spinning - it's is impossible.
I love listening especially to Metal Daze as loud as I can while singing along and headbanging because the old neighbor down stairs hate it as hell - or everyone in my surroundings... So don't even start thinking:" why do all my neighbors hate me?" When you receive a letter... it's the Eric Adams factor ;) however: NEVER surrender.
Battle Hymn is magical, the composition of the song is magical and it ends totally out of this world... Yeah I also remember the first time I heard this one... I was totally mesmerized and I still get the same felling every single time I hear it...trying singing along (although it is impossible) will make you hoarse... it shows no mercy to your throat and your lungs :D
Original rating by Steen: 9/10
Link to original review
Other member ratings:
Stuart - 9.5/10 - Link to review
Dark Lord - 9/10 - Link to review
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| Metallica - Metallica |  | | Sandra's Rating: 9.5/10
The black album, ooh yeah! This was how my journey in metal started.
This album has a special meaning to me and not to forget the masterpiece it truly is.
This is the first album with Jason Newsted on bass after the tragic death of Cliff Burton. It is also the first album with Bob Rock as the producer which is remarkable.
With one of the coolest riffs and the catchy chorus Enter sandman rocks big time!
Sad but true: the riff is very heavy and the composition of the song is making the whole damn thing even stronger.
Holier than thou: this is gooood very good. . .all the anger, which is also found in Don´t tread on me. I love it and especially when James says raauw. It's hard not to have a clenched fist in the air and shout out loud "Don´t tread on me!"
The unforgiven is one of my Metallica favorite songs. The build-up with heavy verse and melodic chorus is very cool and you really pay attention to James´ soft voice. The song starts off with a western feeling as if you are a cowboy in the desert and then: "New blood joints this earth" - love that line - its unpredictable and it makes a contrast between the verse and the light guitar.
The song gives me this special feeling in my stomach (still after hundreds of spins) which I cannot describe, you have to listen to i - and the guitar solo: wow.
Wherever I may roam has an oriental vibe and the bass line is superb. I cannot think of another album before this one with as high bass frequency. You can hear the bass much more . . .or am I just a bad listener?
If I had to say something less flattering about this album (it's hard to do) then it must be Through the never. This is a bit of a turn off for me maybe it´s just because that all of the others are so fabulous and this is average. However, the guitar solo is breezy so that must be the only positive thing about the song.
Nothing else matters: A ballad with an orchestra by Metallica? Yes that's right and ever since I first heard it I have been in love with this song. It's incredibly moving and the orchestra and the acoustic guitar fits the song perfectly.
I really admire James Hettfield, because he is this tough looking guy with a raw sailorman voice and the don't fuck with me attitude is all over him (and the rest of the band haha;)). However, his voice can be gentle and he truly sings this ballad with emotion.
Of wolf and man is another fabulous song with powerful drums and a captivating chorus that gets me all the time.
My friend of misery the bass is mesmerizing and thrilling. When I listen to this song the bass line gets stuck in my head for the rest of the day and night. . . it will haunt me forever :O It's hard to focus if I'm doing something else because I'm humming and driving people crazy.
The struggle within Kicks ass!!! Cool intro with the drums and then the screaming guitar turns heavy as hell. The tempo is speedy in the verse and a bit deliberated in the chorus.
The lyrics are well written:
Home is not a home it becomes a hell, turning into your prison cell. Awesome.
This song is a power booster - after the guitar solo when James says go! you can't help yourself.
Classic album.
GO!
Original rating by Tommy: 9.5/10
Link to original review
Other member ratings:
notrap - 9/10 - Link to review
bogdan - 10/10 - Link to review
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| Nightwish - Century Child |  | | Sandra's Rating: 8/10
Century child is one of my favorite Nightwish albums, the production is stunning and so are the lyrics. I think Century Child is less affected by power metal than the previous albums, however, it still have many power metal elements.
Bless the child is really an amazing song to start the album with and Tarja's unique voice sets the atmosphere.
End of all hope: Is a little too much for me. It's not a song that fascinates me over and over again. I rather not listen to this.
The keys in Dead to the world are very intense which gives the song a powerful tempo.
Ever dream: This song is fantastic! Tuomas starts the song with the magical piano melody line and I'm already in heaven. It begins magically and ends bombastically.
Slaying the dreamer has a very heavy riff, and Marco´s monster voice adds a more raw edge to the song which I personally like. The bombastic part with strong drumming delivered by Jukka and Tarja's operatic vocal .the perfect way to rock out ;)
Forever yours: Tarja's voice is very sensitive and it has depth and soul although some would say it is cold as ice at times, but that's not how I feel it. It's a very calm song and the lyrics are affecting.
The keys are very melodic in Ocean soul and the choir is creating a gothic atmosphere.
Feel for you: is an overall good song, but there isn't anything special about it so it stands out. In my opinion the lyrics are well written.
The album is also containing the Nightwish version of the song The phantom of the opera from the famous novel/musical/film. This is my favorite version. First of all: it fits perfectly to a band like Nightwish because of the theme and its operatic vocals. I can't imagine of any other band making a better version because Marco and Tarja are the ones who this song was written for. or it seem like it is. They really have accomplished to recreate the perfect"Phantom of the opera-atmosphere".
Beauty of the beast: is composed of 3 parts. The beginning is amazing; the incredible Tuomas Holopainen keys make me feel like I'm in a fantasy world far away. "Long Lost Love" is my favorite part, because the words are touching:
"Oh, do you care, I still feel for you, so aware, what should be lost is there. I fear I will never find anyone. I know my greatest pain is yet to come. Will we find each other in the dark. My long lost love".
The second part One More Night to Live is powerful, and every band member does a great job.
"Christabel" is a brilliant way of ending the album because it gives the album a redline with the beginning of Bless the child, it gives meaning and it is a factor which I find very important for music to be. It is defiantly one of my favorites from this album.
The symphonic combination is phenomenal and that's what I love about Nightwish. It is difficult to combine the symphonic dimension with heavy riffs, melodic keys and not to be forgotten Tarja's pure and operatic voice, however, Nightwish is able to do it and they do it brilliantly.
Original rating by Tommy: 8.5/10
Link to original review
Other member ratings:
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| Nightwish - Once |  | | Sandra's Rating: 7.5/10
"Once" was my first encounter with Nightwish and the subgenre symphonic metal, when I somewhere back in time for the first time listen to "Planet hell". It was so different from everything else I had ever heard and the gothic atmosphere was unbelievably scary. First, I thought it was strange, however; there was something about it that made me push the play button over and over. It resulted with an addiction of symphonic metal.
When it comes to this song, words can't describe its true brilliancy. Ghost love score is a 10 minute breathtaking epic. Close your eyes and be ready for an unforgettable journey. It's a major symphonic piece of art and the lyrics are so well written; I cannot think of another Nightwish song which is as well written! Everything is fantastic, the dramatic violins and trumpets, the drums (wow, what a brilliant way to set off the song) and Tarjas wonderful vocal.
The drums in Romanticide are intense; Jukka delivers some nice stuff especially the breakthrough about 3.19 followed by the heavy guitar and bass, it kicks ass.
When it comes to Wish I had an angel, I can´t agree with Matthew. It is my least favorite song on the album. Lyrically, it is very good, however, the techno thing is just too much for my taste.
Nemo is, if I dare to say, more "commercial" than the previous songs from Nightwish. The usually operatic Tarja-voice,which might have frightened some, is not to be found instead a more turned down, however, still beautiful voice. Because of the soft voice it reached out to a broader audience and if they like it they will maybe check out some other Nightwish songs - a win-win-situation :)
Original rating by Matthew: 8/10
Link to original review
Other member ratings:
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| Pain of Salvation - Remedy Lane |  | | Sandra's Rating: 10/10
When everything is weird and I'm feeling like nothing is real anymore, I put this album on, and drift off. This album is real, the stories behind are real, and the fact that Daniel Gildenlöw is "undressing" himself so deeply, makes me feel like there are persons in this world who are real, not perfect and not afraid to show their feelings - and to write it down in this way - I admire this ability.
It's a very demanding album and sometimes I feel as if it's psychological terror . . . in a weird way. While listening to this album I feel as if my clothes are ripped off by this massive mind-attack. . . the lyrics, the different tempos, the atmospheres, and all the emotions.
Yes, I also believe that everyone can relate to the themes somehow ... Sometimes it freaks me out, however, this is very healthy and I believe that the most cold-blooded person in this world would get a lump in the throat. Incredibly what music can do. Every single track is beyond belief and the stories behind are heartbreaking.
Fandango, Trace of blood, This Heart of mine, Rope Ends, Ending theme and Undertow are the songs that I love and really feel for.
This album is one of my top albums of all time. Painfully honest album . . . magnum opus.
Original rating by Steen: 10/10
Link to original review
Other member ratings:
notrap - 8.5/10 - Link to review
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| Queensrÿche - Operation: Mindcrime - Remastered and Expanded | |
| Richie Kotzen - Into the Black |  | | Sandra's Rating: 8.5/10
"I sold my soul, just so I could feel paid. I broke my heart, so I couldn't feel pain..."
Fantastic album. This is my first encounter with Richie Kotzen, and certainly not the last. I'm impressed, very impressed.
When I come home after a busy day, I throw all the books away and everything else that's in my hands, put this on and enjoy it. It's so weird, because it's actually a quite dark album. But I really enjoy this album and it's something that I can hear over and over ... usually, I get tired of "breaking-up-theme-albums" cause there's often written "Feel pity for me" all over them and it's just too much. HOWEVER, this one is nothing like that. This man is strong and honest. You can feel it right away, in his voice, the lyrics, and in the music.
It's defiantly among my top discoveries this year.
"Fuck your money
Fuck your fame
Fuck my life"
Hell yeah :-) , What an attitude... I love it.
Original rating by Michael: 7.5/10
Link to original review
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| Stratovarius - Infinite |  | | Sandra's Rating: 8/10
I pretty much agree with Tommy...it's high level Power Metal ...and also right on the prediction.
The problem about "Mother Gaia", is the fact that it's misplaced ... just right after the ultra fast Millennium... then it might feel as a odd low-point, especially with the beginning, however, it certainly isn't a low point.
"Mother Gaia" is very beautiful, the guitar solo is so great and dreamy ..it captures a brilliant atmosphere.
I simply love "Celestial Dream", very relaxing and the symphonic elements fits perfectly in. I just wish it was longer.
Many great, exciting and catchy Power Metal songs, executed by the expert power metallers :)
Original rating by Tommy: 8/10
Link to original review
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| Stratovarius - Visions |  | | Sandra's Rating: 8.5/10
Sandra has not added a review.
Original rating by Tommy: 9/10
Link to original review
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| Symphony X - The Odyssey |  | | Sandra's Rating: 9.5/10
The Odyssey is my favorite Symphony X album - and what a great theme!
The title song is a masterpiece. There is always something new to explore when I listen to it.
Accolade II is breathtaking. The chorus is so warm and embracing "On the field with sword and shield..." wow! Russell Allen has so much depth and power in his voice, it´s touching.
A genius album from a genius band!
Original rating by Tommy: 9.5/10
Link to original review
Other member ratings:
Steen - 9/10 - Link to review
ProfessorShred - 9/10 - Link to review
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| Vanden Plas - Beyond Daylight |  | | Sandra's Rating: 9/10
Sandra has not added a review.
Original rating by Tommy: 9.5/10
Link to original review
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| Whitesnake - Whitesnake |  | | Sandra's Rating: 9/10
I Love this album, it's genius.
I remember the day I got the album and the first time I heard "looking for love" from the first word I was in love - I just couldn't stop listening to this song and I forgot the rest of the album and the fact that I had to sleep. . . eat . . . . . This will also remain as one of my favorite songs EVER ;) . . . "After" my addiction I figured out that the other songs are pretty good too . no BRILIANT.
Original rating by Alanna: 9/10
Link to original review
Other member ratings:
Little Drummer Boy - 8/10 - Link to review
ProfessorShred - 9/10 - Link to review
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| Virgin Steele - Age Of Consent |  | | Sandra's Rating: 8.5/10
Age of consent...I was once told that if I like Manowar then I should listen to Virgin Steele because they are similar. Then I heard Cry Forever, Vini Vidi Vici and Child of Desolation and was totally amazed. However, as a huge Manowar fan I can say that I don't think that they are similar...Virgin Steele is more about feelings and there is a special touch into the music - I just can't put my finger on it. Well I bought Age of Consent because of Cry forever (I LOVE this ballad) and Invictus because of Vini Vidi Vici... I really liked it at that time but I couldn't find any VS albums and my searching on the internet wasn't a huge success. However, a couple months ago I decided to continue my exploring and I have been listening to Invictus and Age of Consent regularly since and now I'm totally hooked on this band. The fact that these guys really don't give a damn when it comes to PR - makes me even like them more... when I sometimes think of Manowar, I get a bit sad because of the endless stream of Fan-stuff... it's too much .. Sorry Manowar, but that is the truth - and the endless stream of weird e-mails is just annoying... 5 e-mails from Magic Circle every other day is way too much.
The Burning of Rome is very melodic and very epic - especially with the sound of the sword in the beginning. It's a song that sticks to your brain right away, love the lyric. The riffs are easy and very cool - it made me want to play this song.
Roar is very speedy, and the ROAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRR is soo cool - like a lion :) . The Chorus is very memorable and love the way he sings it in. and the keys at the ending ...is just perfect...a magical touch.
The drums in the beginning of Lion in the winter followed by a far out from this world scream is incredible. Again a very catchy and breezy chorus and I love the galloping tempo; this gets me in a very good mood. I actually would like the drums to be turned up...just a bit...that would be perfect.
Stranger At The Gate is defiantly something I could listen to like for the rest of my life - once again I have found myself pushing repeat many times. I simply adore this instrumental, if David recorded albums with his piano-playing I would seriously buy them all. He is so talented, he really knows what goes together and the timing is perfect. Okay, I love it :) he is so passionate; he plays with his heart...so damn passionate. The beginning is like rain falling down slowly... I can just picture it in my mind. Beautiful, what a great composer.
I love the start of Perfect Mansions with the vocals and rain and thunder, and then: "The day is over", so clear and full of soul. The chorus is lovely and so high pitched ...no matter how bad I sing I can't help singing along - damn what a high pitched voice he has...and then the guitar solo is so tight and fits so perfectly in. One day, I listened to this one when I went to the beach on a very cloudy evening and the sun was just setting in the horizon that was beautiful. The settings just brought the song into another dimension...what an experience.
From the first time I listened to Coils of The Serpent I liked it and it's quite funny and it made me laugh :)
Serpent's Kiss has some very heavy riffs and then halfway through it explodes - DUBLE BASS DRUMMING badass :D and then the ultra fast, super awesome guitar solo - and then in the ending it slows down into the same heaviness as in the beginning - and the song finally ends with a cool piano outtro - soo cool composition, I'm amazed.
I feel great when I listen to Seventeen, so young and breezy, well I get the feeling that I just can't my hands down... like I have been to a fantastic gig and still can't focus on anything else. It's so playful and funny with the guitar and vocal battle at the end ...I love when bands do that ;)
The depressing song: Tragedy just right after seventeen forces me to take down my hands. One thing that always amazes me about music is its ability to make our humor switch in few seconds.
This album has so much to offer, although I agree that some of the songs are a bit too simple and easy delivered, but still it's a genius album.
Original rating by Tommy: 9/10
Link to original review
Other member ratings:
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| Virgin Steele - Invictus |  | | Sandra's Rating: 10/10
Invictus - What a unique album with a great concept. The album starts out with an epic and formidable intro: The Blood of Vengeance. It is very thrilling with the screams and the galloping horses it sets a tense atmosphere.
The title song Invictus is very speedy, strong and when you are tired this will give you energy. "Die, fall on sword, fall on your knees" Awesome.
Mind, Body, Spirit start out with an unbelievable scream - out of this world - and raw guitar riffs! The bass is fantastic; Rob Demartino is a very talented bass player. The way the song ends is lovely. Dave goes from a raw to a light and beautiful voice and it is very touching. Very well written and it gives me something to think about. One of my favorites.
Through Blood and Fire is a song which really gives me power. The drumming is amazing and the chorus is very catchy.
The guitar solo in Sword of The Gods is fucking tight :D
God of our sorrows is defiantly one of my favorites; I just wish it was longer. I have often found myself pushing the repeat bottom and turning the volume as high as I can. It is a piece of art - beautiful. Full of soul, emotions and the passionate piano melody ahh. Once again I'm overwhelmed by David's voice. Very well written it gives me goose bumps "God of our sorrows your blade drinks deep, Earth feels the wound. Earth mother I am wronged, Earth mother I am wronged. What comes on the wind can only be slain, by he who knows, the Wind"
The drumming in Defiance is overwhelming and mind-blowing - the sound is great, galloping guitar and bass riffs, the lyrics are great and I can't stop singing a long "I fight for my people, my home and my land, fighting is our legacy on earth" soo cool and powerful I can't resist that chorus.
Dust from the burning: the riffs are crispy and raw, and the drumming is earthshaking.
A whisper of death the slow part is soo heavenly.
Vini Vidi Vici. IT's a PHENOMENON! - Seriously. It gives me goose bumbs(again), the beginning is to die for. Well written, breathtaking guitar solos, SUBLIME. This will get you - that's for sure, ahh man it's magical.
David Defies is one hell of a singer, wow, he just blows you away. An overwhelming unique singer, he is very passionate and believable.
Invictus is an album that will impress and make you feel you are somewhere else in another state of mind
It gives you an everlasting impression - all the feelings and the technical flair is outstanding. After listening to this one you will feel like you can breakthrough all the walls in life and do anything.
EPIC, powerful, full of feelings and tight solos, actually the whole thing is damn tight. It's very hard to criticize it because it is sublime.
" For best results play at maximum volume ! ! ! ! ! ! ! "- Virgin Steele
I can only agree ;)
10/10 - no doubt.
Original rating by Tommy: 10/10
Link to original review
Other member ratings:
Steen - 10/10 - Link to review
YNGWIEVIKING - 9.5/10 - Link to review
Dark Lord - 10/10 - Link to review
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Last profile update: Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Joined Thursday, January 22, 2009
Profile Views: 1955 |
RevelationZ Comments
| Comment by Steen (Staff) - Friday, January 23, 2009 | 
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Comments: 518 | | Very cool list of bands. You have to check out Savatage and Virgin Steele if you haven't already. I have a feeling you'll like both bands. Go for Savatage - Gutter Ballet or Streets and Virgin Steele - Invictus for a good beginning.
Posted by Steen (Staff)
Friday, January 23, 2009 |
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| Comment by Sandra (Member) - Friday, January 23, 2009 | 
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Comments: 36 | | Hi!
Actually, I know Virgin Steele .... I have 2 of their albums... Invictus and Age Of Consent and they are both amazing !!! arrrg Vini Vidi Vici gives me goosebumps !
I also know Savatage, however not enough ...I only have Fight for the Rock and Poets and Madmen...I have just ordred Gutterballet and Streets after Tommy recomanded them!
I have just recived Virgin Steele:The House of Atreus Act I and act II and looking forward to listen to them. By the way this website rocks big time\m/
Sandra
Posted by Sandra
Friday, January 23, 2009 |
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| Comment by Steen (Staff) - Saturday, January 24, 2009 |
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Comments: 518 | | Thanks!
I find everything about Invictus amazing and I'll never forget hearing Veni Vidi Vici live at the Wacken Open Air Festival in 1998. That was chilling on a hot summer day. The House of Atreus albums are amazing as well and worth spending a lot of time on.
Great about Savatage, you definitely have something to look forward to.
Enjoy the site and check out some of the Retro reviews for more musical greatness.
Mentally Yours
Steen
Posted by Steen (Staff)
Saturday, January 24, 2009 |
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| Comment by Sandra (Member) - Sunday, January 25, 2009 |
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Comments: 36 | | Wow, Vin vidi vici live at W:O:A?!... I cannot imagine that. That must be a once in a lifetime experience !
Posted by Sandra
Sunday, January 25, 2009 |
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| Comment by Little Drummer Boy (Member) - Thursday, June 11, 2009 | 
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Comments: 166 | | Personally you should get the entire Savatage catalog and capture its evolution. Of course I say that since I am a huge fan and pretty much get anything related to the Savatage name. That is one band that went through some hard times and today the name Savatage is not just a band but an entity. I think if you look at the Savatage "family" it will impress you to how far they reach. Though based on what I saw on your list if Favorite Albums I would look at getting Edge Of Thorns and Dead Winter Dead next.
If you love DT then I would also highly recommend the band Redemption.
Posted by Little Drummer Boy
Thursday, June 11, 2009 |
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| Comment by Sandra (Member) - Friday, June 12, 2009 |
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Comments: 36 | | You know what? I actually ordered the rest of their catalog 3 days ago (waiting and waiting) because through the past couple of months I have been listening to Savatage, however, recently it just hit me like a ton of bricks, and I'm soo addicted, really, seriously, I couldn't sleep the first time I heard "The Storm". until I finally fell asleep for like an hour and woke up and just had to listen to some Savatage. and I forgot all about the fact that it was 4am. it's been long time, actually too long time since I have had this feeling about music.. I feel so ecstatic. damn why do I have to discover this magical band now? I only had Fight for the Rock and Poets and Madmen before. but I couldn't get into these albums. however is better late than never :)
Yeah I also know Redemption. awesome band.
Posted by Sandra
Friday, June 12, 2009 |
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| Comment by Steen (Staff) - Monday, June 15, 2009 |
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Comments: 518 | | You've got some amazing discoveries ahead. That's for sure!
Posted by Steen (Staff)
Monday, June 15, 2009 |
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| Comment by Little Drummer Boy (Member) - Sunday, November 1, 2009 |
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Comments: 166 | | The latest Redemption release Snowfall on Judgment Day is a must get. James Labrie is a guest vocalist on one track. Stellar.
Posted by Little Drummer Boy
Sunday, November 1, 2009 |
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