Classic operatic melodic power metal at its absolute best. Don't believe me, go check it out.

Freedom Call's seventh studio album is as strong as ever, melodic and captivating.

From the outset, it's less gothic than the previous Shadow King opus, and less thrashy than 2007's Dimensions, but it does contain strong elements of both. The production has gotten the best of the band, a superb sound.

The title track nods back to The Quest from Crystal Empire, while Warriors has a more tribal sound.

They keyboards add an extra dimension but the emphasis is on the twin guitars, which do have blistering moments, and of course the band's trademark huge vocal harmonies.

Then there are tracks like Sun In The Dark, which opens in a very heavy crunchy fashion, and has some almost Sabbath like moments mixed with the vocal harmonies - a great feel.

'Hero On The Video' has a mid 80s melody, while Valley Of The Kingdom harks back to the Crystal Empire.

This album explores many things, but is all down with the band's own style, so it is as varied as it is classic Freedom Call.

Fans will not be disappointed, and if you haven't heard this band yet this is a great opportunity to figure out why they are so highly acclaimed.

*****

Review by Joe Geesin