Rhapsody

Dawn Of Victory

Call it 3½ stars with a bang

Review Score:

(6/10)
OK, I said I would listen to a later release from this band, and so I have. The results? Much improved over their earliest work, "Legendary Tales."

For one, Rhapsody has settled into a style that suits them better. In particular, I stated Legendary Tales reminded me too much of Manowar with weak vocals. Dawn of Victory doesn't--instead, the band has introduced many more pronounced classical influences to go with their massive chorus arrangements. The effect is interesting: Fabio's voice no longer has to be as strong, because the music is no longer of the "He-Man" variety. Now it's anthemic/classical, which works well with a smooth, silken-voiced crooner like Lione.

Because of this, Rhapsody have become a much more unique band. They've improved in this category--no question. But the way they have done it is somewhat amusing. Rhapsody simply takes symphonic Metal to it's logical extreme. They've gone so far overboard with the stylings of the symphonic genre, nobody would dare touch them. The result is--and you must accept this whether you like the band or not--they ARE solidly on another level. It's a level of total Cheese, but nevertheless Rhapsody can lay sole claim to it (my suggestion here is most bands probably wouldn't want to follow in Rhapsody's footsteps; even other symphonic Metal outfits).

It's 3½ stars because I derive much enjoyment listening to Dawn of Victory. It isn't more than 3½ because I have to pace myself with this band: too much and it gets boring. So, in small doses, Rhapsody have become an excellent band. I just have to keep the doses small or the music will lose its appeal quickly.

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