Finnish power metallers Excalion return with their sixth studio album, “Once Upon a Time,” a title that evokes a sense of classic fantasy and epic storytelling. Does the album live up to its fairytale promise? Let’s delve into the world of Excalion and see if “Once Upon a Time” delivers the melodic might and heroic anthems that fans of the genre crave.
A Familiar Path, Well-Trod:
For those familiar with Excalion’s sound, “Once Upon a Time” won’t offer many surprises. The band stays true to their roots, delivering a potent blend of galloping riffs, soaring vocals, and intricate guitar solos. Tracks like “Resolution” and “Soulbound” are quintessential Excalion, showcasing their ability to craft catchy hooks and layer them over a foundation of powerful drumming and soaring vocals.
Maturity and Subtle Evolution:
While the core elements remain familiar, there’s a sense of maturity evident on “Once Upon a Time.” The songwriting feels more focused, and the arrangements are tighter. Excalion incorporates subtle nods to progressive metal with occasional tempo changes and instrumental flourishes, adding a touch of variety to their sound without alienating longtime fans.
The Power of Marcus Lång’s Vocals:
Frontman Marcus Lång remains a standout element. His powerful and clear vocals soar effortlessly over the instrumentation, delivering both heroic anthems and moments of heartfelt emotion. Comparisons to Marco Hietala (Tarot, Nightwish) are inevitable, and Lång does a commendable job channeling that classic power metal vocal style.
A Feast for Keyboard Lovers:
Keyboardist Jari Kainulainen’s contributions deserve special mention. His keyboard work adds a layer of symphonic grandeur to the music, creating soaring melodies and lush textures that complement the guitar riffs and vocals perfectly. Fans of keyboard-heavy power metal will find much to enjoy on “Once Upon a Time.”
A Fun, Energetic Ride (But Not a Fairytale Masterpiece):
“Once Upon a Time” is a thoroughly enjoyable album for fans of melodic power metal. It’s a fun, energetic ride packed with catchy hooks, soaring vocals, and impressive musicianship. However, the album doesn’t necessarily break new ground for the genre. Those seeking a more progressive or innovative take on power metal might find it derivative.
A Recommended Listen for Power Metal Fans:
Despite this minor criticism, “Once Upon a Time” is a solid effort from Excalion. It’s a well-crafted album that delivers everything fans expect from the genre: epic storytelling, powerful vocals, and fist-pumping anthems. If you’re looking for a melodic escape into a world of fantasy and heroism, then “Once Upon a Time” is an album worth adding to your playlist.
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