YNGWIE J. MALMSTEEN — Odyssey (review)

YNGWIE J. MALMSTEEN — Odyssey album cover Album · 1988 · Neoclassical metal Buy this album from MMA partners
4/5 ·
Negoba
The Only Other Yngwie Album You Need

In 1988, Yngwie had made three albums that had solidified but not expanded his stance as one of the most explosive metal guitarists ever. But like all who ever strapped on a guitar, he yearned to be a big star in front of the big crowds. So he decided to make a specific effort to be more commercial. This could have been a disaster. Luckily, the main move toward mainstream success involved getting a singer who could share the stage rather than filling space. For that role, former Deep Purple Joe Lynn Turner was enlisted. Turner would be the best vocalist to appear on a Malmsteen album and as a result Odyssey is probably Malmsteen's #2 album. In addition, Malmsteen also had honed the trading solo style between himself and Jens Johannson that is being used by metal bands to this day. (see Symphony X et al.)

The first "single" off of Odyssey was "Heaven Tonight" which did indeed push the idea of commerciality a little to far. But the power metal "Rising Force" is probably the best vocal song Yngwie ever did. The balladish "Dreaming (Tell Me)" is actually quite good. "Krakatau" is a great instrumental track.

Bottom Line: The best vocal album in the Malmsteen library actually has some great metal.
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