Rhapsody Of Fire
From Chaos To Eternity

Hello everyone, 

I have recently signed up and I would like to start with my review of the latest album from our own Rhapsody Of Fire.

I consider the album definitely warmer and more "felt" than its excellent predecessor. More difficult to assimilate, less immediate melodies, and perhaps for this reason it will enjoy greater longevity.

Let's proceed with a track-by-track.

"Ad infinitum": perhaps their worst intro, not due to the presence of electric guitars, but simply because it lacks charm. However, as a "glue" to the next track, it works more than well.

"From chaos to eternity": beautiful. It took me at least 4 listens to fully appreciate the fantastic chorus. Excellent solos, and the rhythm section is crushing.

"Tempesta di fuoco": the first surprise. For the first time, Italian is used in a speed song that gives us some pretty heavy moments and brief acoustic pauses. Once again, the instrumental section is beautiful.

"Ghosts of forgotten worlds": the same goes for the title track; once it takes off, you can't get it out of your head. Super boosted and very epic chorus. The main riff has a bit of classic '80s/'90s metal feel (Judas Priest).

"Anima perduta": the first partial disappointment. Even after numerous listens, the only thing that stays in mind is the chorus (as usual, ridiculously pompous in the beautiful finale). Probably their weakest in their native language.

"Aeons of raging darkness": second (and last!) partial disappointment. The most aggressive track ever for the band, sung almost exclusively in scream. The charge conveyed by Alex's blasts and Fabio's voice is undeniable, but it seems a bit out of context. Nice chorus and long instrumental section, which maybe this time tires a bit.

"I belong to the stars": second surprise (right from the very first seconds). The riff by Luca with the keyboards going full blast has a strong hard rock vibe. The solos are truly beautiful, especially Staropoli's, and another well-fitted chorus.

"Tornado": predictable pre-suite song, fast and epic! Probably the most classically Rhapsody (of fire). Keyboards always ultra-present and a nice solo by Luca.

"Heroes of the waterfalls' kingdom": a lot to unpack (and a very long lyric!). As expected for a 20-minute track, it is difficult to "digest". On first listens, I didn't like it at all. Then... The first 3 minutes in Italian, marked by Minstrel Fabio enchanting us with his sweet voice. This beginning is truly beautiful. And here come the orchestra and guitars: the second part is classic with an epic big chorus and some well-done background screams..and the emotion rises. After a brief solo, at minute 8, we arrive at the third part dominated by narration/dialogues with Luca doing a bit of what he wants with the guitar...after several listens, I started to appreciate this part too, perhaps thanks to the soundscape created by Turillone that manages to enhance the dramatic atmosphere of the song. Minute 11, we are at the fourth part, the most diverse. I could summarize it with scream&blast/brief narration/resumption of part 2/..a really nice collage! But the saga must end, so at minute 15.30 things get really "dramatic". 5 seconds of incredible silence lead us into the fifth part: imposing choirs, orchestra, and guitar open to a minute of narration/decisive dialogue for the story. Around minute 17, our ears can enjoy what I consider the most, allow me, "epic-in-your-face" moment of the entire Trieste band's discography. Orchestra at maximum, choirs at maximum, guitar and drums for 40 bombastic seconds. The song, the album, and the saga conclude with a brief narration by Lee followed by sweet and subtle melodies. For me, their best suite, truly amazing.

In summary, I would say excellent work, rich in novelty and a worthy conclusion to this great saga.
The best ones: the first 3 (excluding the intro) and Tornado. Heroes is simply incredible.
The worst: Anima perduta, unfortunately, remains anonymous even after many listens.

Once again, it is a MUST-BUY!!