Stratovarius

Stratovarius is a Finnish power metal band formed in 1984, known for melodic, neoclassical-influenced power metal and landmark albums such as Visions and Episode.

Formed in 1984; long associated with guitarist and primary songwriter Timo Tolkki (who relinquished the band name and left in 2008); vocalist Timo Kotipelto is a long-standing frontman; Jens Johansson is the group's longtime keyboardist; Matias Kupiainen is cited as a later guitar replacement; Jörg Michael is a noted longtime drummer; Lauri Porra appears in later line-ups (mentioned in reviews).

DeBaser hosts a sizable set of reviews covering Stratovarius' career from early classics to post-Tolkki releases. Critics praise 90s albums like Visions and Episode while later records and experiments divide opinion. Reviews document lineup changes (Tolkki's departure, Kupiainen's arrival) and recurring praise for Kotipelto and Johansson. Overall, a mixed but generally positive portrait focused on songwriting and legacy.

For:Fans of power metal and melodic/symphonic metal