Search - Nocturnal Rites :: Sacred Talisman

Is it possible not to adore this record?

Colin Mcmillin | Columbia, Missouri United States | 09/10/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"There are many CDs in this world that take several listens to acquire a taste for. Even some of what become my favorite records go through this process. "The Sacred Talisman" was not one of these records, and it probably won't be for you, either, if you like power metal. The opening riff of the first song, "Destiny Calls" captures the listener instantly, and song by song, "Talisman" never lets go. I often go through the mental debate as to whether I prefer this record or HammerFall's "Legacy of Kings." If you liked "Legacy" you owe it to yourself to get "Talisman." Each contains some incredible power metal. But, as was the case with "Legacy" I can't really give "Talisman" five stars, simply because this record doesn't display a whole lot of originality or sophistication. Nevertheless, some of my favorite songs are on here ("The Iron Force" "When Fire Comes To Ice" "Glorious"), and every song is good. Also, the singer, Anders Zackrisson, was my favorite power metal singer when he was with NR. If you're into the 80's style, sword-and-sorcery bands of power metal and you don't own "The Sacred Talisman," you owe it to yourself to buy it IMMEDIATELY."