Finland’s power metal powerhouse returns with sixth album Circus of Doom.
The opening title track “Circus of Doom” serves as an absolutely perfect introduction to the album, lyrically accurate with a commanding riff throughout and immediately catchy chorus – I’ve missed this band!
Where do I even begin with “Wings of Light”? Well, it’s my favourite track on the entire album. So much so that halfway through the track I pre-ordered the album. Again and again this track has wonderful elements, from the screaming start to the solos. It’s got some real Century Child era Nightwish tones embedded in it as well. It is followed by the track I wish could be inserted into the Rocky IV soundtrack, “Master of Illusion”. Failing that, I can see it being added to a lot of gym/exercise playlists – when you hear it you will know what I mean.
Frontwoman Noora Louhimo absolutely blew me away with surging ballad-esque “Where Angels Fear to Fly”. This also has some wonderful theatrical soundscapes that really add to the atmosphere. Then the song that very nearly made me want to change favourite tracks, “Eye of the Storm”. This is an album that is beautifully crafted with hit after hit, while simultaneously giving nods to the past.
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“Russian Roulette” has Eurovision all over it which, if you knew me, you would know that isn’t a criticism. Galloping along next is “Freedom” which is fast-paced from start to finish, followed by “The Road to Avalon” – a great trilogy.
The penultimate track, “Armageddon”, serves up another box of tricks consisting of riffs, solos and a catchy chorus. It carries on into the final offering, “Place That We Call Home”, that will no doubt be a big live hit.
In all honesty, I had to stop listening to this album for a while as nothing else was getting a look in, but I know that when the physical copy is in my hands I will step through the curtain and fall in love with the performance all over again.
One circus you will want a lifetime ticket to.
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Header image by Drew Scott
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Circus of Doom is out 21st January
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