Century Media debut from Italy's premiere melodic metal powerhouse. These guys have toured with the likes of Helloween, Primal Fear, Hammerfall & Nocturnal Rites. 2003.
Century Media debut from Italy's premiere melodic metal powerhouse. These guys have toured with the likes of Helloween, Primal Fear, Hammerfall & Nocturnal Rites. 2003.
CD Reviews
Simply a great album
SK | Waldwick, NJ United States | 09/17/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Ii this cruel world of hip hop and alternative metal this release is a big statement and an ultimate proof that power progressive metal of fine quality still does exist. Even though the best years of this genre had to be 1997- 2000, and having in mind that Labyrinth's most notorious record 'Return to Heaven Denied' was released back in 1998, the band were able to come up with yet another gem. This self titled album made me jump out of my seat on several occasions during the first listen.
It starts exactly how all power metal albums start: with an agressive, fast and pompous tune called 'The Prophet'; then it continues with another superb track and then another superb track and it goes on till the last song without loosing its pace. Even the ballads sound powerful and dynamic.
Production is fine just as in 'Return'; the songs are more keyboard driven than ever adding synthetic twists that fit nicely; guitars layers are fantastic, yet the lead guitar is somewhat weak comparing to previous releases. What really stands out though is vocals; the singer having high pitched voice at times hits extremely high notes without missing them.
As a result of all this we have a polished product; a complete album that should be ranked among the best albums of this year."
Just an extremely solid album
Bodom J | Bethpage, TN United States | 08/14/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"not a masterpiece or whatnot but still extremely good. The production is AMAZING, some of the best production i have ever heard. The sound is loud, clean, crisp, and sounds extremely fresh. There is only one guitar player on this album but you couldn't tell as he shreds all over the place. Tyrants vocals are as good as ever, the drumming is awesome as well. The keyboard is great, he throws in some surprising twists to the songs. The songs are not too long nor too short. Just a really solid album. For a power metal band, they can shred pretty fast and hard. Tons of double bass here too. If your a fan of labyrinth or power metal then I see no reason why you wouldn't enjoy this album. For a good sample of this album listen to tracks 1, 6, and 9. Thanks, bye."
Onof the best of the year
Kari A. Herring | sugar land, tx USA | 08/30/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This cd is killer. Labyrinth returns with an outstanding
self titled release that rivals their classic Return to
Heaven Denied. Speedy, powerful, and very very catchy songs
best describes this one. The production is also top notch.
I was blown away on the first listen, and it gets better
each time. Easily their best as of late. You won't be disappointed with this one, even if you have never heard
of them before. Get this one now!"
"My mind is clear as the sky"
D. Knouse | vancouver, washington United States | 03/23/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The finest compliment I can think to convey about this album is that if this were an EP containing only the first four songs I would still spend money to get it; the rest of the album would be gravy for the meat and potatoes. The first four tracks are incredible examples of everything that is great about Progressive Power Metal as they all contain fantastic musicianship, excellent band interplay, a supremely satisfying lead vocalist that hits notes that are simply awe-inspiring. With this tsunami wave of tremendous song after song it finally crashes with track five as the tempo changes drastically and the listener is allowed a moment's rest as the wave finally receeds. Track five constitutes a superb ballad which still contains some exciting sections of progressive songcraft. The remainder of the album is a roller-coaster ride of tempo changes and outstanding songwriting and musicianship from everyone concerned. The production is exemplary, as well, as every instrument is clear and powerfully rendered. As good as every band member is, some of the most memorable parts are actually keyboard flourishes and background sound-effects. This guy is really creative, not just flashy and fast. All fans of Progressive Power Metal should not hesitate to pick this one up. Running time: (52:08)
1. THE PROPHET (4:46)
2. LIVIN' IN A MAZE (4:37)
3. THIS WORLD (4:55)
4. JUST SOLDIER (stay down) (5:27)
5. NEVERENDING REST (4:54)
6. TERZINATO (5:49)
7. SLAVE TO THE NIGHT (6:06)
8. SYNTHETIC PARADISE (5:48)
9. HAND IN HAND (4:26)
10. WHEN I WILL FLY FAR (5:16)
"
Very good album by this italians!!!
critico constructivo | PR | 04/25/2006
(4 out of 5 stars)
"
Very good power metal album with interesting twists thrown in. The guitar player is a shred maniac and play extremely well. The keyboards is also proficient, the drums discharge a tons of double bass. If you like Lost Horizon and Edguy(Hellfire Club) this is for you!!"
Track Listings (10) - Disc #1