Avantasia
Ghostlights
Release Date: 29 January
Nuclear Blast
Review by Paul Southwell
Picking up where the previous album The Mystery of Time left off; the latest installment offers a musical accompaniment to the potentially dicey topic of scientific advancement and natural selection, versus spirituality and the associated moral hurdles therein. Heady stuff indeed, but remarkably it all comes together and that’s not just from bringing the musical vision to fruition but from the slew of reputable guest artists as per the project’s ongoing modus operandi.
Whether it be the poetic piano figures on Let the Storm Descend Upon You and later track Lucifer, or the heavy eastern tinged vibe of Seduction of Decay, with former Queensrÿche vocalist Geoff Tate. Or the power metal title track that aptly features ex-Helloween vocalist Michael Kiske; the album offers plenty of variety for an ever growing fanbase. Other guests include the ever reliable lead guitar enhancements from ex-Kiss guitarist Bruce Kulick on a few later climactic tracks and the eerily recognisable voice of Dee Snider (Twisted Sister) on The Haunting.
Put aside your preconceptions of what you expect of power metal rock operas and allow Avantasia to take you on another journey that is a rewarding musical experience. Enjoy the ride.
