Freedom Call - Crystal Empire (2001)

See, this is how my tastes work. This morning, I listened to Primal Fear, and liked it, without having any passion. Tonight, I listened to fellow Germans Freedom Call, who brought out one of the most wonderful power metal albums STAIRWAY TO FAIRYLAND,  as their debut. And I'm in love again with this follow-up, being taken away by the melodies, but also the drama and yes, at times, invention of the music as they continue their tale of battle over Taragon. It's a bit darker this time around, and maybe a bit harder to get into, but there's also impressive complexity with the likes of "The Quest" and "Palace Of Fantasy", while such songs as "Farewell", "Call Of Fame" and "Ocean" (particularly the latter) are winners.
This is why I got into power metal in the first place. This kind of music. I can still go to Primal Fear and their ilk, no problem. But nothing can top the kind of joyous compositions Freedom Call brings out. May they never die.

*****