What leaves you stunned is not so much his ability to "hit" high notes, but the disarming ease of performing the pieces.

 For once, his voice is the absolute protagonist and everything else comes after.

Michele Luppi, known for his power metal roots with Vision Divine, showcases a different side on his solo album Strive, focusing on AOR and melodic rock. The review praises his vocal prowess and ease in delivering performances, highlighting how the vocals take center stage over heavy instrumentation. The album offers a fresh listening experience for fans and newcomers alike, with standout tracks like 'Trust' and 'Tell Me About It'. Overall, Strive is highly recommended for those appreciating strong vocal interpretation. Listen to Michele Luppi’s Strive and experience a masterclass in melodic rock vocals today!

 'Black Roses is a 2006 debut album, dizzying for its overall level, so out of the ordinary.'

 'Queen Of The Damned... flows with the expertise of a seasoned band.'

The Dogma's 2006 debut album 'Black Roses' impresses with its melodic, gothic-tinged heavy metal style. Featuring passionate vocals by Daniele Santori and expert musicianship boosted by Mike Terrana on drums, the album stands out in the power metal scene. Highlights include the heartfelt ballad 'Maryann' and the energetic, intricate 'Queen Of The Damned.' Despite being underrated, the band shows bright potential and originality uncommon in their genre. Listen to The Dogma's 'Black Roses' and experience a fresh, powerful take on melodic heavy metal today!

 "'The Dark Ride' is a kick, a shovel hit right in the face of happy power metal that for many years the legendary pumpkins of Hamburg have pushed forward."

 ‘‘I am convinced that 'The Dark Ride' is a great album of the pumpkins even though it is totally alien to the rest of their discography.’’

The Dark Ride marks a daring departure from Helloween's traditional happy power metal, showcasing darker tones and heavier riffs. Despite dividing longtime fans, the album features strong songwriting, especially from Kusch and Grapow, and excellent vocals by Andi Deris. Its mix of aggression and melody offers a fresh, cerebral take on power metal. The album remains a bold and highly recommended work for fans of heavy metal beyond just the band's earlier style. Dive into The Dark Ride and experience Helloween's powerful and dark twist on melodic power metal today!

 Jim Peterik almost achieves absolute masterpiece status with his new creation characterized by the use of two male voices.

 An album that borders on perfection in how it’s sung, played, and written.

Pride Of Lions' 2007 album The Roaring Of Dreams is hailed as an AOR masterpiece featuring powerful vocals by Toby Hitchcock and strong guitar work. Jim Peterik's songwriting shines through melodic tracks full of energy and emotion. The album balances ballads and fast-paced songs with modern production while retaining classic '80s melodic rock charm. It is praised for its songwriting, vocal range, and overall sound quality, surpassing previous Pride Of Lions releases. Listen to Pride Of Lions' The Roaring Of Dreams and experience a powerful blend of classic and modern AOR excellence!

 Avantasia is not a jumble of commercially potent hits thrown together at random, but it is also a concept album where each singer plays a real character.

 What makes the Avantasia project unique is not its music but the presence of so many European and non-European metal artists guided by a 25-year-old mix of genius and madness.

Avantasia II by Tobias Sammet masterfully assembles power metal clichés into a highly collaborative metal opera featuring many renowned artists. The album's strength lies in its rich vocal arrangements and storytelling through character performances. Though it lacks innovation, it offers memorable tracks like 'Seven Angels' and 'In Quest For.' Overall, it serves as a robust follow-up to the first part and a solid introduction to the genre for newcomers. Discover the epic metal opera Avantasia II—listen now and experience a star-studded power metal journey!

 Gotthard returns to making hard rock, and I am pleased.

 'Domino Effect' is a valuable and daring CD... extremely enjoyable in the total of 14 tracks.

Gotthard's Domino Effect marks a welcome return to their hard rock roots after the polished melodic rock of Lipservice. The album’s heavier riffs and raw energy are balanced by emotional ballads and skilled musicianship. Although some tracks feel predictable, the overall work is engaging and confidently produced. Fans of the band's earlier style will appreciate this daring and professional effort. Discover Gotthard’s bold return to hard rock—listen to Domino Effect and experience their raw energy and melodic mastery!

 The Poodles hit you from all sides and always hit the mark.

 If you like hard rock, but generally beautiful melodies, reach for your wallet because there are still albums in 2007 worth purchasing.

The Poodles' debut album Metal Will Stand Tall offers a collection of melodic hard rock tracks marked by catchy choruses and solid musicianship. Backed by experienced members and songwriting by Holly Knight, the album balances radio-friendly hits with passionate performances. Highlights include the title track and 'Night Of Passion', showcasing the band’s ability to craft memorable hard rock anthems. While a few more intense songs could add variety, the overall quality and engaging melodies make this debut a strong start. Listen to The Poodles' Metal Will Stand Tall and experience catchy hard rock anthems that stand the test of time!