Rhapsody of Fire - Triumph or Agony

Rhapsody of Fire – Triumph or Agony

Triumph or Agony is the beginning of a new saga, as all other Rhapsody (of fire) albums, this tells an intricate story like set in a world of myths and legends. This album sounds like as some would call "Hollywood Metal" sounding like an epic film Score, yes this is Epic-Symphonic Power metal at its most Extreme! Backed by a 70-piece orchestra and choir and a cast of character actors; including a Christopher Lee from Lord of the Rings fame playing the part of the Narrator, the "All knowing Wizard king".

With an uplifting feel throughout, thanks by high power metal vocals and intricate melodies provided by the almost excessive use of violin and guitar, almost inseparable in some tracks. Powered by the very impressive song-writing skills of Luca Turilli and Alex Staropoli. Not only writing they're own guitar and keyboard parts but also all the lyrics and orchestral parts.

But from the very Lord of the Rings-esk introduction to the Climax of the 16minute long "The Mystic Prophecy of the Demonknight" this album gives only the finest overblown epic sound throughout, some tracks mellower like "Il Canto Del Vento" sung entirely in Italian, but lack the impact of other tracks.

Yes this album almost silly, yes this album plays out like a fantasy film or fairytale, but you can't help but love it for is shear boldness and imagination, the writing skills and the full-blown epic-ness of this album, uplifting to the full every listen. Bringing back a well needed good sense of fun and adventure

Best Tracks: Triumph or Agony, Heart of the Darklands, The Mystic Prophecy of the Demonknight

[8/10]