The Good
If Edguy is Sammet's day job, then Avantasia is certainly his night one.
The normally energetic highflying vocalist takes on a darker more ominous
tone with this project. Roy Kahn of Kamelot lends a vocal hand on the hopeless
lyrical scheme of "Twisted Mind." Despite the utter darkness
it entails, both vocalists are on the game melodically. "The Scarecrow" is
an epic 11+ minute affair that is not only enhanced by orchestral elements,
but
also power metal heavyweight Jorn Lande. Frantic rapid-fire riffage runs
rampant on "Shelter From the Rain." The double-kick drum onslaught
reminds you of early Helloween. And if that doesn't, guest vocalist Michael
Kiske
will. Hey, didn't he swear off metal? Sammet teams up with Amanda Somerville
on the stunning duet "What Kind of Love." Their two vocal styles
were truly made for each other. For "The Toy Master" Sammet employs
a living scarecrow (I mean that with the utmost respect). Legendary shock-rocker
Alice Cooper
lends his gritty and scary vocals on this one. "Cry a Little" has
a thematic element to it that will remind you of a Broadway or motion picture
score.
Powerful choruses, driving guitars, and over-the-top vocals elevate the
energy level of "I Don't Believe in Your Love."
The Bad
Nada
The Verdict
Wow! I am almost at a loss for words. The Scarecrow is incredible. Sammet
has no problem making the transition from energetic party man to dark storyteller.
Guest appearance by some of the prominent names is metal certainly doesn't
hurt this Avantasia effort, but it doesn't take away from the talent of
Tobias Sammet either. A great metal find.
Did You Know?
Edguy was one of the first Western Rock bands to
ever play Israel or China.
AVANTASIA
