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Dragonland: Under the Grey Banner

Epic (Fantasy) Power Metal

4.5/5.0

AFM Records/King Records
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by Craig Hartranft,  12.12.2011

Fans of epic fantasy power metal finally have their wet dreams fulfilled. Sweden's Dragonland returns, after a five year hiatus, to complete the Dragonland Chronicles trilogy with Under the Grey Banner. Booming and nearing film score character, Dragonland rivals Rhapsody, and channels Blind Guardian and Kamelot at the same time. From the breathless bombastic opening of Ilmarion and Shadow of the Mithril Mountains to the theatre fantastique of the title track, Dragonland is epic and majestic, holding nothing back as they sweep you away in their adventure. Add a few moments of exposition of the tale, spoken or sung, and a dose of female vocal leads, and the tapestry becomes even more glorious.

Frankly, there's not much else to say here. It's all good. If you want a more in depth examination of the songs, I'm sure it can be found in another review elsewhere on the Internet. Certainly, there's some fantasy power metal nerd slobbering over his iPod with this one.

Conclusion: Dragonland is certainly not reinventing the 'fantasy' metal genre; perfecting, pushing it forward and keeping it alive is more likely. With Under the Grey Banner, Dragonland is at most epic and entertaining best. Recommended.

Dragonland is certainly not reinventing the 'fantasy' metal genre; perfecting, pushing it forward and keeping it alive is more likely. With Under the Grey Banner, Dragonland is at most epic and entertaining best.

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Here's a fun fact about Swiss legends, Gotthard: their last 16 releases, excepting their debut album, went to number one in their home country, making them one of Switzerland's most successful acts and ... [ Read More ]