Well, here’s a band I have never heard of. What we have here is straight up power metal, complete with fantasy lyrics, medieval melodies and tons of guitars. Surprisingly, The Storyteller comes off as more authentic than some of the newer bands in the genre. It’s hard to explain, but where bands like Rhapsody and Metalium have something of a “campy” feel about them, The Storyteller seems very genuine and non-trite. Even with all the elements I would normally consider stale or typical, I find the desire to push the “skip” button almost non-existent. Maybe it’s the fact that the vocalist remains in a normal, human register as opposed to going ultra-sonic on the whole thing. Which is a good thing because the few times he goes for a high note, it’s a bit grating. Sounds like he knows his limits. I don’t know, but I do know that this is a pretty good record. There’s even a power ballad called “Always Be There”, complete with cool guitar solo and the “…please believe me baby…” thing going on. Not really a whole lot I can say other than this is good, albiet not original, power metal. Fast guitars, melodic vocals, tight drumming, lots of fast solos, short on the keyboards as well. The melodies are strong and the choruses are memorable. Song titles include “Guardians of Kail”, “Sense of Steel”, “A Test of Endurance and Strength”, and “Chant of the Thieves” so you should be able to predict lyrical style. If you’re a power metal fan, and are ready for a good record with very minimal cheese factor, pick this up.

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