Search - Manticora :: Hyperion

Precise Power/Progressive/Thrash Metal and a story to boot

CellFreak | Memphis, TN USA | 09/24/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you read my review of 8 Deadly Sins then you know that I couldn't wait to hear the other Manticora discs. Well, I have them all now (they finally got released in the States). Hyperion is Manticora's 3rd studio album and it tells a story based on the book Hyperion (go figure) by Dan Simmons. Due to "copyright problems" they had to change some names and places. Haven't read the book, so that didn't take away from the story.



Musically, you can hear the classic Manticora sound throughout. 6 songs topping 7 minutes and well-written, well-placed interludes in the 2 to 3 minute range. It is very hard to describe Manticora's music, but I will give it a try.



Speed, beauty, precision, virtuoistic instrumentalists, great synthesis of dual guitars, keyboards, bass, and very intricate drumming. The voice of Lars Larsen is perhaps the finest in Power metal. He sings in a perfect mid-range and you never hear the squeal that so many other power metal bands are infected with. The song structures are so intricate that you have to hear them to believe them. There is everything from the fast to the slow and melodic. Blazing solos from both guitarists and the keyboardist. Soulful, emotive singing can be found throughout.



I cannot more highly recommend Manticora. Without trying to take anything away from my long time favorite band, Blind Guardian, Manticora is quickly taking over that spot.



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