Warthur Rhapsody's second multiple-concept album epic comes to a close which feels more exhausted than triumphant here. Don't get me wrong, this is a more or less solid Rhapsody album that keeps me reasonably entertained across its running time, but I can't help but be left with the impression that Rhapsody were getting diminishing returns out of their formula at this point, and the subsequent split into two factions was probably a necessary one to give them a jolt. To be honest, the only really major departures the Dark Secret Saga albums make compared with the Emerald Sword Saga are as follows:

- Christopher Lee narrates the Dark Sword Saga - score one for the Dark Sword Saga. - The Emerald Sword Saga doesn't quite have a symphonic-and-narrative-focused release as The Cold Embrace of Fear, though since that was kind of a dull misstep that's a solid point in the Emerald Sword Saga's favour.

And, erm, that's about it. Apparently the band have decided that this will be the last of their conceptual epics, and perhaps some time backing away from the expectations the Emerald Sword Saga built up will be good for recharging their creative batteries. I'm also interested to see what Rhapsody of Fire and Luca Turilli do now they've had their amicable parting of the ways. But as far as this album goes, it's solid stuff, but I know this Rhapsody lineup are capable of better and they don't quite deliver the triumphant conclusion I was hoping for.

Conor Fynes 'From Chaos To Eternity' - Rhapsody (Of Fire) (7/10)

If there's anything that still surprises me about Rhapsody of Fire, it's that they manage to keep going steady without ever changing their style in any significant way. Since they started out with the debut 'Legendary Tales', Rhapsody's cinematic brand of 'swords and sorcery' power metal has been going strong, occasionally focusing one one aspect more than others on a given record, but essentially making the same music they were making when they first started out. Luckily for the band, Rhapsody executes this style incredibly well, and to date, there hasn't been the overbearing need for them to change who they are in order to stay fresh. 'From Chaos To Eternity' is Rhapsody's third album in two years, and while I would normally tend to expect a band's quality to plummet once they start becoming more prolific, Rhapsody's eighth album 'From Chaos To Eternity' has really impressed me. While there are not necessarily any standout tracks that tower above the others, I would be hard pressed to deny that the band has not released as consistent an album for quite some time.

Apparently wrapping up a massive conceptual saga of the band's that started with their debut, 'From Chaos To Eternity' is a big album for the band. Apart from their speed and epic film score-worthy sound, one of the tenants of Rhapsody Of Fire is their focus on Tolkien- offshoot high fantasy, with which they use to fuel their often narrative lyrics. Although Rhapsody is as sharp as they come when it comes to neoclassical or symphonic power metal, the lyrics have always been cheesy as all hell, and- true to their doctrine of never changing- 'From Chaos To Eternity' is wrapped up in lyrics about rather tired fantasy topics; some conclusion to a multiple-album concept piece that I find difficult to become even slightly interested in. Luckily, the lyrics are the weakest element for this talented Italian band. Musically, the band may never have sounded tighter. Fabio Leone's voice shows no signs of aging, sounding as powerful and soaring as it ever has. There is a focus on this album on the band's neoclassical metal elements, which barrels down to alot of sweeps and arpeggios, courtesy of guitarist virtuoso Luca Turelli. While there is shredding aplenty in the album, the rest of the band keeps up the speed, and the instrumental indulgences never go on too long before getting boring.

A very strong element to Rhapsody's sound here is that of the symphonic arrangements, which are often complex and mesh beautifully into the metal core of the sound. Were it not for the admittedly silly lyrical content, Rhapsody Of Fire could very well stir up some very intense dramatic feelings with their music. Maybe the only sound I hear here that is 'new' is the moderate use of harsh vocals, especially in the song 'Aeons Of Raging Darkness'. The music remains fairly upbeat throughout these parts however; instead of taking any dark route with the screams, Rhapsody ultimately ends of sounding like a counterpart to Wintersun.

Although there are no standout tracks here (this album tends to be relying more on its pleasant consistency than any particularly incredible tracks), the end of the album is graced with a twenty minute epic. Naturally, this made me very excited when I arrived at this part of the album, especially due to the incredible success of one of the band's earlier epics, being 'The Mystic Prophecy Of The Demonknight' from 2006's 'Triumph Or Agony'. Indeed, 'Heroes Of The Waterfalls' Kingdom' is a very powerful work featuring a myriad of changes and different feelings woven into it. While sporting some very strong moments in it though, the closing epic to this album does not feel as if it works as a cohesive composition, instead working better as a series of soundtrack snippets, each to suit a different part of whatever fictional fantasy film Rhapsody are attempting to score here.

And with a few more symphonic flourishes after the metal fury has long since ended, 'From Chaos To Eternity' ends, something of a fitting musical end to this long saga that Rhapsody Of Fire has conjured up for the power metal world since riding out of Italy in the 90's. A very good album overall, although it should be mentioned that there are very few surprises to be had here for anyone that has heard an album by this band before.

J-Man Rhapsody of Fire have established themselves among Italy's finest power metal exports throughout their long and illustrious career, and From Chaos to Eternity is yet another excellent addition to their shining catalog. Featuring Christopher Lee's legendary voice acting, as well as some of symphonic power metal's most bombastic compositions and top-notch musicianship, calling this album a winner would be an understatement. Although Rhapsody of Fire hasn't revolutionized their sound this time around and they still remain exceptionally close to their symphonic power metal roots, the fact that they manage to still keep their sound fresh and inventive is highly impressive. From Chaos of Eternity won't win over the haters, but anyone who enjoys an occasional burst of power metal on the more bombastic side should certainly take a look in this direction!

Anyone even passingly familiar with Rhapsody of Fire will recognize their blend of symphonic power metal from a mile away, and that also applies to From Chaos to Eternity. Expect symphonic power metal with lush keyboards, operatic vocals, voice narration courtesy of Christopher Lee, lyrics revolving around fantasy-related subjects, and of course plenty of the standard power metal trademarks (fast double-pedal patterns, shredding guitar solos, powerful lead vocals, etc.). Although this may sound extremely clichéd and cheesy (which, in a sense, it is), Rhapsody of Fire manages to deliver the sound in one of the most powerful, professional, and just plain enjoyable formats I've ever heard. Through a journey of well-composed songs, captivating lyrics, and impeccable musicianship, Rhapsody of Fire takes us on a voyage through some of symphonic power metal's finest offerings. The near-20 minute epic "Heroes of the Waterfalls' Kingdom" especially highlights the band's captivating songwriting talents.

From Chaos to Eternity may not be terribly original, but it's sure to be one of the year's best power metal albums. With such excellent compositions, top-notch musicianship, and sleek production, it's hard not to be at least somewhat impressed by this effort. I was personally very satisfied by From Chaos to Eternity and find it to be a highly recommendable purchase for anyone who enjoys some wizards and folklore to infiltrate their stereo from time-to-time. 4 stars seems very appropriate here. Anyone who enjoys Rhapsody of Fire should definitely make sure this finds its way into their collection!

Coffin Joe ...Over-the-top power metal

ROF is back with yet another over-the-top cheesy symphonic power metal album, a style which they have dubbed Hollywood Metal, due to it's grandiose and epic hollywood blockbuster feel. Love or hate ROF, they are very technically proficient musicians, and they sure do now how to write epic power metal tracks with giant orchestras and choirs.

From Chaos to Eternity is the third part of ROF's Symphony of The Enchanted Lands Saga, now I must admit, I haven't been following the ROF lore, but it quickly becomes apparent that it's along the lines of Lord of The Rings storyline. Yes, it's extremely corny, but somehow it goes well with their insanely grand power-metal style. For all it's cheesy moments and laughable univers, this is also a very solid power metal album. The standard and production is very high, although the album isn't a stand-out from the rest of ROF's back-catalogue, it's hard not to be impressed with the mad skills and epic power metal at display here.

Expect blazing guitars, opera, a symphony orchestra, lyrics in both italian & english, giant choirs, epic sing-a long-chorus, singing with a Gollum voice, blasting drums & an insanely corny storyline. If you can wrap your head around on the things that is going on, you are in for a grand and epic tour-de-force through the univers of ROF

ROF is definitely an acquired taste, but it's hard not to tap your feet while smiling at the same time. Unless they release another album this year, this is going to be contender for the most over-the-top power metal release of the year.

Oh...and Christopher Lee makes a guest appearance again, Yes, THAT Christopher Lee!