Dragonstar

 "We are no longer talking about the Cisco with raised fist who sings of historic revolutions, but of a more calm, introspective man posing as a singer-songwriter."

 "The phrase 'hai svenduto una storia gloriosa per l’ennesimo centro commerciale' is just one of the many critiques from an album denouncing a modernity that discredits tradition and culture."

Stefano 'Cisco' Bellotti's third solo album, 'Fuori i secondi', marks a mature, introspective phase away from his former political fervor. The album blends folk, orchestral elements, and poetic lyrics to express melancholy, social critique, and faint hope. Highlights include melancholic ballads, playful swing, and heartfelt tributes, wrapped in rich instrumentation and thoughtful storytelling. Dive into Cisco's poetic and introspective 'Fuori i secondi' for a rich folk experience filled with emotion and cultural depth.

 "Giving a new identity to a historic track is a noble experiment, but it will never arouse the same curiosity as an undiscovered piece!"

 "This is a challenging and heavy album, reserved for true fans of Angelo Branduardi."

Il Rovo e la Rosa is an album mixing new songs with reinterpretations of Branduardi’s historical works, featuring stripped-down arrangements and thematic focus on love and death. While artistically deep, some tracks suffer from repetitive or flat compositions, making the album better suited for dedicated fans than newcomers. Notable songs include Celtic ballads and acoustic versions highlighting Branduardi’s storytelling but sometimes losing the original’s magic. Explore Angelo Branduardi's artistic journey with Il Rovo e la Rosa—listen now and discover his evolving folk ballads.

 "A mature, powerful, instinctive album, perhaps a bit too straightforward, but after all, what other characteristics should heavy metal have if seen in its rawest form?"

 "The musical translation of all this is ‘Keeper of the Holy Grail,’ an arcane ballad… adorned with an unusual central instrumental where organ and keyboards tune an air that touches the borders of sacred music."

Knights of the Cross is Grave Digger's seventh album, continuing their medieval trilogy with a focus on Templar knights. It features clearer guitars, mystical keyboards, and a mix of acoustic and metallic elements. The album balances powerful metal tracks with ethereal ballads, showcasing maturity and instinctive energy. Some weaker tracks do not detract much from the overall strong composition and thematic unity. Discover the epic medieval metal journey of Grave Digger's Knights of the Cross—listen and explore this iconic 1998 concept album now!

 Dark Wings of Steel is an anomalous record, full of lights and shadows, clouded by the mysticism that veils not only its atmosphere but also its creation.

 The use of such a logo by the aforementioned bands is to be interpreted as a commercial stunt... we will never know.

Dark Wings of Steel offers a blend of power and symphonic metal with moments of grandeur but also predictable and heavy passages. The album struggles to find a unique identity after key lineup changes, resulting in mixed public reception. Some tracks stand out, especially the symphonic ballads, while others feel overly heavy or uninspired. The review suggests that the album's challenges stem partly from branding choices and comparison with past successes. Discover the complex tones of Dark Wings of Steel—listen and explore Rhapsody of Fire’s evolving sound today!

 "Tunes of War is a fascinating concept on the Scottish revolution, a work that abruptly altered the songwriting style of the band."

 "The choruses have become pompous and evocative while the pieces have assumed heroic, romantic, sometimes even tragic tones."

Grave Digger's 1996 album Tunes of War marks the start of their medieval trilogy, replacing dark themes with heroic, historical storytelling. The album features powerful heavy metal with evocative choruses and a Scottish revolution concept. Memorable tracks include 'Scotland United,' 'William Wallace,' and 'Rebellion.' The well-crafted booklet enhances the listener's experience with historical context. Overall, a monumental and unrepeatable masterpiece in metal history. Dive into the heroic saga of Grave Digger's Tunes of War and experience this epic heavy metal classic now!

 "A solitary and pristine expanse of salty water in which the author manages to capture the tranquility needed to reflect on himself."

 "A heartfelt declaration of love from a man who becomes quiet thanks to the warm welcome his new homeland has given him."

L'appartenenza by Pippo Pollina is a poetic album exploring themes of escape, memory, and renewal across acoustic folk and melodic rock. The work reflects on the contrasts between lost and found belonging, blending imagery of the sea and mountains, and honors songwriting traditions. Highlight tracks include 'Mare mare mare' and 'Helvetia,' capturing peace and introspection. The album is praised as a standout in Italian songwriting music for 2014. Listen to Pippo Pollina's L'appartenenza and immerse yourself in its poetic reflections on life, belonging, and nature.

 "Mysterium is still Epic Metal—plumbous, compact, heroic, evocative."

 "'The Battle of Bonchester Bridge' is the first true masterpiece of the album."

Manilla Road’s 'Mysterium' continues their legacy of epic metal with grandiose yet raw production and mid-tempo rhythms. The album features new members who bring a fresh and powerful drumming style that complements the band’s heroic and evocative sound. Lyrically rich with historical and mythical themes, standout songs like 'The Battle of Bonchester Bridge' and 'Mysterium' highlight the album's artistic depth. Overall, this work is praised as a growing masterpiece in the band’s discography. Dive into the epic world of Manilla Road’s Mysterium—listen now and experience timeless metal storytelling!