Rhapsody
Power Of The Dragonflame

THE REVIEW

(Before I start writing it, I wanted to dedicate this review mainly to Fede De l. who helped me get to know Rhapsody better, whom I was reluctant to listen to before, but also to my friend Gazzo, who has nothing to do with it but wanted to be thanked... Moreover, it is also dedicated to those who love this band, but especially to the approximately 70% of metalheads who despise this band, hoping that at least they like my review).

We are faced with Power of the Dragonflame, the fourth work (without considering the LP "Rain of a Thousand Flames") and for me among the best of Rhapsody, a true Italian pride. Try to create a power album, add the epic element, choirs, and orchestras (very well directed by Alex Staropoli): this CD will surely be the result!

The ingredients change but not the substance, therefore: in this album, the Trieste-based band makes various modifications that make it clear that they are not a band of little importance as many consider them... In simpler words, the previous works are reinterpreted to which malice, speed, and energy are added, almost a contribution of thrash, to shape a sound that is always pleasant to listen to and better than what we find in "Dawn of Victory" where the orchestras appeared with more intensity but unfortunately created an almost heavy sensation.
This can be noticed in faster songs, however, loaded with melodies and symphonies. Another noteworthy change is the massive use of vocals in English (apart from the ballad "Lamento eroico" sung completely in our language).

However, the structure of the album does not change, composed of ten songs and blessed with the inevitable intro, in this case, "In tenebris" (among other things very beautiful) recited in Latin; to immediately reach the majestic "KnightRider of Doom." Next, we find the title track, in my opinion, the best of the entire package thanks to the energy it conveys.
Other things to note are the malice of "When Demons Awake" mostly sung in growl by Fabio Lione that is very black metal, "The March of the Swordmaster" taken from an old medieval tune, and the finale "Gargoyles, Angels of Darkness" a song that lasts more than nineteen minutes dotted with acoustic guitar parts and fierce riffs.

Perhaps a flaw is given by the somewhat predictable production that risks making this album tedious, but it is certainly the work that consecrated Luca Turilli both as a composer and especially as a guitarist, showcasing a very high level of technique.

An album that should be recommended to lovers of power metal in general, but not to the many who have never tolerated Rhapsody. You either like it or you don't, I really don't think there are middle grounds for a band that has definitely made a lot of noise, both positively and negatively.