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News
| Saturday, September 12, 2009 - Stratovarius - re-release of the epic double album | Stratovarius is without question one of the most recognizable and respected bands in the history of progressive power metal. Over the last 20 years the group released 12 LPs and a number of compilation and live albums. "Elements", the epic double offering from 2003 is by many fans considered as Stratovarius' most ambitious and monumental work yet. These two exclusive re-releases of "Elements Pt.1" and "Elements Pt.2" bring back some of the most enchanting sounds found within the power metal genre. The monumental albums brilliantly combine power metal heaviness with progressive soundscapes, bringing some of the most memorable compositions in the band's career.
"Elements Pt.1", the first of two albums forming a beautifully written suite, starts off with the catchy mid-tempo opener "Eagleheart", which resembles a bit "Hunting High and Low" from "Infinite". It's followed by "Soul of a Vagabond", a strongly keyboard-oriented track with plenty of orchestral parts and a driving riff similar to the one from Dio's "Holy Diver". The next song, "Find Your Own Voice", as well as the latter "Learning to Fly" represent the typical fast-paced Stratovarius style, with some extremely high-pitched vocals by Kotipelto. "Fantasia" and "Elements" are the album's longest and most memorable compositions - filled with choir and orchestral arrangements, both tracks showcase true musical mastery. Other highlights include the instrumental powerhouse ""Stratofortress", with some amazing guitar/keyboard battles, and the epic, dreamy song "Papillion". The album ends with "A Drop in the Ocean", a beautiful acoustic ballad. New digipak edition includes 3 bonus tracks.
"Elements Pt.2" saw the light of day on October 27th, the same year as "Pt.1". The opening track, "Alpha & Omega", begins with the sound of rolling waves (the same sound which concluded the first part of the suite) and develops into an epic hymn with an outstanding vocal performance by Kotipelto. The song is followed by two fast-paced tracks - "I Walk To My Own Song" and "I'm Alive". Next up is the album's first ballad, "Season of Faith's Perfection", which transforms into the monumental "Awaken the Giant", a powerful song clearly inspired by Black Sabbath. "Know the Difference" is another speedy power metal track, while "Luminous" brilliantly showcases the band's progressive influences. The following track, "Dreamweaver", is yet another Stratovarius classic - a strong, epic composition, sounding like Rush combined with metal. "Elements Pt.2" ends with a piano ballad "Liberty", an amazing conclusion to this enchanting suite.
Metal Mind Productions will re-release "Elements Pt.1" & "Pt.2" on 21st September in Europe and 1st December in USA (via MVD). Both titles will be available in a new digipak edition, each limited to 2000 copies. Digitally remastered using 24-Bit process on a golden disc.
Stratovarius
"Elements Vol. 1" (remastered + bonus tracks)
Label: Metal Mind Records
Cat. No.: MASS CD 1323 DG
Barcode: 5907785035416
Format: CD Digipak (limited edition of 2000 numbered copies)
Genre: progressive power metal
Release date: 21.09.2009 Europe / 01.12.2009 USA
Tracklist:
1. Eagleheart
2. Soul Of A Vagabond
3. Find Your Own Voice
4. Fantasia
5. Learning To Fly
6. Papillon
7. Stratofortress
8. Elements
9. A Drop In The Ocean
Bonus tracks:
10. Papillon - French Version
11. Run Away
12. Find Your Own Voice (Demo Version)
Stratovarius
"Elements Vol. 2" (remastered)
Label: Metal Mind Records
Cat. No.: MASS CD 1324 DG
Barcode: 5907785035423
Format: CD Digipak (limited edition of 2000 numbered copies)
Genre: progressive power metal
Release date: 21.09.2009 Europe / 01.12.2009 USA
Tracklist:
1. Alpha & Omega
2. I Walk To My Own Song
3. I'm Still Alive
4. Season Of Faith's Perfection
5. Awaken The Giant
6. Know The Difference
7. Luminous
8. Dreamweaver
9. Liberty |
RevelationZ Comments
| Comment by gizmo (Member) - Monday, September 14, 2009 | |
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