Narnia: Course of a Generation

Christian based rockers Narnia, have gone through a major change since their last release. Gone is long time lead singer Christian Rivel and in his place is the very talented German Pascual. For their 6th studio album the band along with its new lead singer, seems to be rejuvenated and the results are a power metal feast for the ears.

Without knowing the history of the band and what makes them tick, you would never guess that Narnia is a Christian group from this offering. While the lyrics do have a sense of spirituality, they are really open for interpretation and other than being a positive outlook for a change, there is nothing to keep the non-believers away from this great offering. I shouldn't have to defend the background and beliefs of the band, those that are narrow minded enough to reject an album just because it might have a religious undercurrent will probably not be reading this review anyway.

This is one of the surprise albums of this year. Narnia has tightened their focus on the music and results have created a disc which yearns to be cranked to full volume. With a majesty that has to do a lot with the new lead singer, shades of Ronnie James Dio meet Iron Maiden come to mind as I listen to the ten strong cuts that the band has seen fit to bestow upon us. Fans of bands such as Masterstroke, Mind's Eye and the afore mentioned groups have another to add to their collection now. These guys have come up with a phenomenal effort and the new sound is one that I look forward to hearing time and time again.

I will not be able to give enough credit for this resurgence to German Pascual. His vocals are truly amazing and you are going to wonder where this guy comes from. He has a voice that is perfect for this type of music and I expect some great stuff in the future. One a song such as "When The Stars Are Falling" he manages to pull off what might be called a Ronnie James Coverdale. If you could graft the two together, Pascual would be the outcome. He has that much talent.

Musically this disc is a melodic power metal treat. Guitarist Carl Johan Grimmark delivers throughout the disc and even mixes in the occasional terrific solo. Heavy, fast, loud and proud, this is metal the way it is meant to be. Without a doubt, this is going to be one of my picks for best of the year. It is that dynamic and just a great slice of the power metal pie.

Track Listing
1. Sail Around The World
2. When The Stars Are Falling
3. Curse Of A Generation
4. Scared
5. Kings Will Come
6. Rain
7. Armageddon
8. One War To Freedom
9. Miles Away
10. Behind The Curtain

Added: May 31st 2010
Reviewer: Scott Ward
Score:
Related Link: Narnia online
Hits: 132
Language: english

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