Haggard - Tales Of Ithiria
The symphonic powerhouse that is Haggard has marked listeners with their firs two albums, namely Awaking the Centuries [2000] and Eppur Si Muove [2004]. The long awaited successor has now been unveiled this month with Tales of Ithiria. In the continuation of their previous releases, their new offering varies little from the winning formula used by their main composer Asis Nasseri.
Another four years have passed and yet Haggard is still a well reckoned name, the quality of their symphonic power metal surpassing anything previously known. The full orchestra is back in action, more determined than ever before. However, while satisfying the Tales of Ithiria are lacking the wow factor that I was expecting from Haggard. All their classic elements are present, their heavy riffs thrive, classically trained singers are showcasing their talents, but despite all of that something is missing to win me over completely.
The narrator short passages add little to the music, and the fast heavy parts are too dispersed to turn this album into a proud successor of Eppur Si Muove. The Meccano cover 'Hijo de la Luna' is a very nice surprise, although I doubt it will convince die-hard fans as well as nostalgic fans of the Spanish combo. The production is in my opinion not on par with their previous album either, which does not help.
Overall a decent album, but not enough true Haggard-style music to turn heads around. A couple more songs would have definitely added tremendous value. Nevertheless, Tales of Ithria is still a special album, which should fill fans of symphonic power with enough value for their buck.
copas from http://www.metalstorm.net/pub/review.php?review_id=5957
Tracklist:
01. The Origin
02. Chapter I - Tales Of Ithiria
03. From Deep Within
04. Chapter II - Upon Fallen Autumn Leaves
05. In Des Königs Hallen (Allegretto Siciliano)
06. Chapter III - La Terra Santa
07. Vor Dem Sturme
08. Chapter IV - The Sleeping Child
09. Hijo De La Luna [Mecano cover]
10. On These Endless Fields
11. Chapter V - The Hidden Sign
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