Italian epic metal legends Rhapsody have emerged in the metal community once again, after a lengthy hiatus, with their latest and eighth studio release “The Frozen Tears Of Angels”. For those of you who have been following the band over their illustrious career will be overjoyed to know that this is the third chapter of the “Dark Secret Saga” and it is pure Rhapsody (they may not be called this anymore but that is who they are in my book) through and through. Produced by Luca Turilli and Alex Staropoli this CD is an excellent return to form for these speed metal gods.
The concept behind this CD is based around a journey of the five main characters to the frozen unexplored northern lands in search of the demon knight and they attempt to stop his prophecy. Once again this recording features the narration of actor Christopher Lee (as their previous CD “Triumph of Agony.”) Musically this is pure and unadulterated Rhapsody. Guitarist Luca Turilla is at the top of his game as usual with complex guitar riffs and break neck solos. Fabio Lione’s vocals are spot on as he sings in both English and Italian and does it with such finesse and beauty.
Some of the highlights include Christopher Lee’s narration throughout the CD. The man’s voice is perfect for this CD. He opens the CD with a narration to set up the concept/story and it leads into the symphonic operatic opening track “Dark Frozen World/ Sea Of Fate”. From the first note Turilla lets you know this is going to be one wild ride. “Danza Di Fuoco E Ghiaccio” captures the folk metal aspect of Rhapsody and has Fabio singing the song in his native Italian tongue. Closing out the CD is the eleven and a half minute epic title track which seals up the CD with a thunderous bang.
Overall, there is nothing new here in terms of Rhapsody (which is a good thing). If anything they seem more focused and tighter as band. The production is crisp and flawless. The CD artwork is spectacular. There is very little, if anything wrong with this CD… It is good symphonic metal to the core. Rhapsody of Fire “The Frozen Tears of Angels” is a CD that is guaranteed to be enjoyed by longtime fans. If you are one of the few symphonic/progressive metal lovers who have yet to hear Rhapsody then you need to go out and get it
