Tales of Ancient Prophecies

Fire? Check. Wizards? Check. Magic? Check. Swords? (preferably steel) Check. Castles? Check. Most importantly - Dragons? Check-a-roony!

This album has made quite a stir in the power metal underground recently, with more than a few of my friends asking me excitedly "Hey Larry! Have you heard Twilight Force yet?!" I'll admit the band's name didn't exactly stand out as anything significant. But just one glance at that amazing artwork and I was sold. No pre-listening was required from this Swedish quartet. A dragon blasting fire at a wizard on a mountain, with a castle in the background? "Tales of Ancient Prophecies?" Song titles like "Enchanted Dragon of Wisdom", and "In The Mighty Hall of the Fire King"? Shut up Twilight Force and take my money.

Of course I remained weary, for with great excitement comes the anticipation which leads to inevitable disappointment. However, I was just excited upon the release of Evertale's "Of Dragons And Elves" - and that begot my only 100% review...so I could not quench the eagerness for long. Therefore I hastily unwrapped my brand new Twilight Force CD, placed it gingerly in my stereo, pressed 'play'...and was swept away on a tidal wave of fantasy metal Godliness!

The first three tracks of "Tales of Ancient Prophecies" show just what these Swedish newcomers are capable of. The phrase 'Rhapsody-clone' will instantly spring to mind, but the sheer joy and enthusiasm of playing grandiose symphonic power metal that oozes from this band will dispel any negative notions plaguing your mind. Opener "Enchanted Dragon of Wisdom" is one of those tracks that instantly plants a huge, overbearing grin on the face of any power metal fan. Irresistible melodies, impressive symphonics and unbearably catchy choruses are the lessons today - and Twilight Force have come chocked to the gills with them.

The production is especially profound. I never thought any band could fuse an orchestra with metal as successfully and smoothly as Staropoli and co. - but Twilight Force have managed it with ease; wisely letting the bright symphonics carry the beautiful melodies while the rhythm section punch away underneath - accompanying with professional power. As for lyrics...well...

Flames of mighty dragons
Lighting up the the skies.
A new day dawns
Of magic glory eternally!

Exactly. Perfect.

Unfortunately, a very minor air of negativity hangs over this otherwise stunning debut. One glance at the tracklist leaves you wondering how an 11-track symphonic power metal album could clock in at a mere 36 minutes. Well, the answer lies in 4 tracks which are barely longer than a minute and contain almost nothing of worth. That being said...the narration on "In The Mighty Hall of the Fire King" and "The Summoning" is utterly hilarious. At least Twilight Force take their fantasy story with a pinch of tongue-in-cheek humour.

Despite this moderate qualm, "Tales of Ancient Prophecies" is a phenomenal first release, which shows great promise for this up and coming power metal act. If you are a fan of Fairyland, Rhapsody, Thy Majestie etc. I promise you will be grinning from ear to ear within the first 30 seconds of this album. If the artwork, superbly high-pitched vocal performance, convincing symphonics and infectious choruses don't persuade you - then the special guest appearance on "Gates of Glory" by Sabaton's Joakim Brodén certainly will. Oops! Didn't mean to spoil the surprise!