(Rated this album with 8 out of 10) Reviewed by
A music fan
from Jarrettsville, Maryland
I will give them this. This is a unique band with a unique sound. Though I am not sure that this would be the album to start with from Blind Guardian. Let's start by saying that this is defininitely in the european brand of power/progressive metal. That is definitely a good thing since most interesting heavy music seems to come from Europe these days. A Night at the Opera is exactly what BG has attempted to do. They have melded their particular brand of metal into a heavy metal opera. This is a very good album if you are looking for complex songwriting, excellent production and a heavy metal attack that just won't quit. And I think that is one aspect of the album that is definitely lacking....it doesn't quit. These guys allow no room for a breath...it is headbanging from beat one to the last. By the middle of the album you are looking for melody to hang your hat...it's not there. I personnally really like the album, but it takes a lot of listens and musical analysis. If you are the kind of person who listens to music intently then this album would be for you..as a background party music type of thing...forget it. 4 stars for pushing the envelope. The singer has a really cool voice, who I believe takes a little getting used to. The musicians are all top notch. Production is very good. I like the Demons and Wizards project with Jon Schaeffer and Hansi better. Please continue!
