MILLENIUM

1. The Paradox of Melody in the Holy Land of Death Metal

1.1 The Musical Soil of Tampa, Florida

In the 1990s, Tampa, Florida, held an extremely unique position in the global heavy metal scene. Known as the "Capital of Death Metal," the scene was dominated by bands like Deicide, Obituary, Morbid Angel, and Death, which were characterized by extreme low-end sounds and aggression. In this intense musical environment, the existence of a band called MILLENIUM was a kind of "beautiful anomaly."

MILLENIUM was a melodic hard rock band led by guitarist Ralph Santolla, who would later achieve fame as a virtuoso in the death metal world. In the 1990s US domestic market, where grunge and alternative rock were dominant, MILLENIUM carried on the traditional aesthetic of 1970s and 1980s British hard rock bands like Rainbow, Deep Purple, and UFO, while blending it with refined AOR (Adult Oriented Rock) elements.

1.2 Definition and Identification of the Band Name

• The Millennium: A 1960s sunshine pop band from California.
• MILLENIUM (Polish band): A neo-progressive rock band.
• Millennium (and other bands of the same name, e.g., from India): Heavy/thrash metal bands.

2. Prehistory: The Eyewitness Era (1993-1996)

2.1 Background of Formation and Demo Production

To trace the history of MILLENIUM, one must first look in detail at its direct predecessor, Eyewitness. In 1993, Ralph Santolla was participating in the tour for the album "Individual Thought Patterns" by Death, a foundational band of technical death metal. However, his musical roots lay with European melodic guitarists such as Michael Schenker and Uli Jon Roth, and he was seeking to form a band to pursue his ideal melodic rock.

Santolla met drummer Oliver Hanson and formed the band. For the vocalist, they recruited Todd Plant, a talented singer active locally in Tampa who was also known for singing pro wrestler Hulk Hogan's entrance theme song, "American Made." The early lineup also included Keith Sterling on keyboards and Shawn Phillips on guitar.

2.2 Analysis of the Album "Eyewitness" (1995)

The band signed with Now & Then Records, a British label specializing in melodic rock, and released their self-titled album "Eyewitness" in 1995.

Musical Characteristics and Track Analysis: This album features a mixture of pure American hard rock and European lyricism. Notably, it includes a cover of UFO's classic song "Only You Can Rock Me," which demonstrates Santolla's deep reverence for Michael Schenker. A cover of Zeno's "Far Away" is also included, making it clear that the direction MILLENIUM aimed for was "orthodox melodic/shred hard rock."

• "Masters of the World": A track with a catchy chorus suitable for opening the album.
• "The Killing Words": One of the band's signature tracks, driven by a melodious guitar riff.
• "Life Goes On": A ballad that showcases Santolla's high songwriting capabilities.

Historical Evaluation: "Eyewitness" was favorably received by European fans, including a performance at the "Gods of AOR" festival held in London. However, seeking a clearer identity and a change in musical direction (introducing heavier and more progressive elements), the band decided to change its name to MILLENIUM.

3. The Dawn: Debut Album "MILLENIUM" (1997)

3.1 Restart and Establishment of Identity

In 1997, the band restarted as MILLENIUM and released their self-titled debut album, "MILLENIUM." This name change signified more than a mere rebranding; it represented a massive leap forward in both songwriting structure and production quality.

Lineup (1997):

• Ralph Santolla: Guitars, Keyboards, Backing Vocals
• Todd Plant: Lead Vocals
• Sean Phillips: Rhythm Guitar
• Wayne Koho: Bass
• Oliver Hanson: Drums

3.2 Song Structure Analysis of the Album "MILLENIUM"

The debut album is the work with the strongest AOR flavor compared to their later releases. It blends a refreshing feel reminiscent of Journey and Survivor with Santolla's technical guitar solos.

• "Together As One": The album opener, an epic track spanning over six minutes. The lyrics written by Santolla often focus on themes of hope and love, highlighting a side of "light" that stood in stark contrast to his activities in death metal bands.
• "Believe In Love": A track featuring radio-friendly chorus work.
• "Invincible": A hard rock number symbolizing the band's inherent strength.

Affinity with the Japanese Market: This album was also released in Japan by the Brunette label (ALCB-3188) and received enthusiastic support, primarily from readers of the specialized magazine BURRN!. For Japanese fans, the neo-classical phrases played by Santolla combined with Plant's soaring high-tone vocals were exactly the "ideal form of melodic metal" they had been searching for.

4. The Golden Era Part I: Maturation in "Angelfire" (1999)

4.1 Musical Evolution and Deepening of Production

Released in 1999, the second album, "Angelfire," is regarded by many critics and fans as the masterpiece of the Todd Plant era. While inheriting the AOR approach of the previous work, it featured more dramatic and symphonic arrangements.

Production Background: Recording took place at the famous Morrisound Studios in Florida. While Morrisound is typically known as a sanctuary for death metal, producer Jim Morris provided a crystal-clear production that brought out the full potential of MILLENIUM's delicate melodies.

4.2 Detailed Analysis of Key Tracks

• "Nations" (Instrumental): An instrumental piece opening the album. Though short, it allows listeners to fully appreciate Santolla's guitar orchestration.
• "Shaman": An ambitious track incorporating world-music rhythms, showcasing the breadth of Santolla's musical palette.
• "Angelfire": The title track, a power ballad distinguished by its lyrical melody.
• "Saving Grace": An emotional song highlighting Todd Plant's outstanding vocal performance.

4.3 Departure of Todd Plant and the Band's Crisis

Shortly after the release of "Angelfire," the band reached a major turning point. Vocalist Todd Plant left the band after receiving an offer to join the touring lineup of the legendary American rock band, The Doobie Brothers. While this was a major career step for Plant that he could not refuse, for MILLENIUM, losing their frontman posed an existential crisis.

5. The Golden Era Part II: "Hourglass" and the Legend of Jorn Lande (2000)

5.1 Joining of the Nordic Giant, Jorn Lande

Looking for a replacement for Todd Plant, Ralph Santolla set his sights on Norwegian singer Jorn Lande. At the time, Lande was beginning to draw attention through his work with The Snakes and Ark, but he had not yet established his current status as the "Master of Metal."

The meeting between Santolla and Lande sparked an immediate musical chemistry. Bonding over shared musical preferences such as Deep Purple, Rainbow, and Whitesnake, the two aimed for a heavier, bluesier, and more epic direction.

5.2 The Lineup Becoming a Supergroup

For the production of the album "Hourglass," Santolla assembled a powerful lineup:

• Keyboards: Don Airey - The legendary keyboardist who played with Rainbow, Ozzy Osbourne, and Deep Purple participated.
• Keyboards: Dag Stokke - The keyboardist of the Norwegian band TNT also joined, adding a Nordic transparency to the sound.
• Bass: Manfred Binder
• Drums: Oliver Hanson

5.3 The Full Picture of the Album "Hourglass" (2000)

This album is frequently considered the masterpiece of MILLENIUM's discography. Recording took place across the globe, including Manchester in the UK, Bøverbru in Norway (Studio Studio Nyhagen), and Tampa in Florida.

Track Structure:

1. "The Power to Love": A track following the classic path of melodic metal, opening with Lande's powerful roar. Santolla's guitar solo strikes a perfect balance between shredding and weeping phrases.
2. "Hourglass": The title track. An epic song lasting 6 minutes and 42 seconds, characterized by progressive developments and a grand chorus. Don Airey's keyboard solo is also a major highlight.
3. "I Will Follow": A song where listeners can enjoy both Lande's deep mid-to-low range and his piercing high-register vocals.

Importance of Cover Songs: Cover songs that strongly reflect the roots of Santolla and Lande are also vital elements of this work.

• "I Surrender": A classic Rainbow song (written by Russ Ballard). Lande's vocal performance is praised as rivaling or even surpassing Joe Lynn Turner's original.
• "Love Is Like Oxygen": A cover of The Sweet.
• "Jane": A cover of Jefferson Starship.

5.4 The Magic of the Japanese Bonus Tracks

The Japanese edition (Now & Then Records / CRCL-4545) includes bonus tracks that collectors around the world search for frantically.

• "Rain": An unreleased original song. Its sorrowful melody is exquisite, boasting a level of completion that makes it mysterious why it was left off the main album.
• "Anybody": Another bonus track unique to the Japanese release.

5.5 Departure of Jorn Lande

Although "Hourglass" received high praise in Europe and Japan, Jorn Lande's career skyrocketed. He became fully occupied with joining Masterplan, his solo career, and participating in Avantasia. As a result, this was the only studio album featuring Lande, but its impact was monumental.

6. Reunion and End: "Jericho" (2004)

6.1 Return of Todd Plant

Following Jorn Lande's departure, the band faced another vocalist crisis, but founding vocalist Todd Plant made his return. The album "Jericho," released in 2004, marked a return to the band's roots while demonstrating an evolution toward a more modern and heavy sound.

6.2 Sound Transformation of the Album "Jericho"

During this period, Ralph Santolla was deepening his involvement with death metal bands (later officially joining Deicide), and that influence carried over into the guitar sound. Downtuning was frequently utilized, and the riffs became more angular.

Lineup (2004):

• Ralph Santolla: Guitars, Keyboards
• Todd Plant: Vocals
• Shane French: Guitars
• Steve McKenna / Tere Bertke: Bass
• Mark Prator: Drums (replacing Oliver Hanson)

Key Tracks:

• "My Saving Grace": The album opener. Heavy guitar riffs and Plant's piercing vocals intersect.
• "Wheel of Fortune": A track displaying a dramatic progression.
• "My War": Characterized by aggressive riffs, as its title suggests, showing Santolla's metal side.

6.3 Cessation of Activities and the Death of Ralph Santolla

After "Jericho," the band's activities became sporadic, leading to a de facto hiatus. Ralph Santolla would subsequently showcase his virtuosity to the world as the lead guitarist for world-renowned death metal bands such as Deicide (2005–2011) and Obituary (2007–2011). He brought the lyrical melodies he cultivated in MILLENIUM into the ferocious sound of death metal, overturning conventional concepts of death metal guitar playing.

On June 6, 2018, Ralph Santolla passed away at the young age of 51 after falling into a coma following a heart attack. With his passing, the possibility of a MILLENIUM reunion was lost forever, but the melodies he left behind continue to live on in the hearts of fans.

7. Member Biographies: Details of Key Members

7.1 Ralph Santolla - Guitar & Keyboards

• Years: December 8, 1966 – June 6, 2018
• Birthplace: Charlotte, North Carolina (Raised in Tampa, Florida)
• Playing Style:
  • Technique: Masterfully commanded high-speed alternate picking and smooth legato playing.
  • Theory: Deeply versed in classical music theory, he excelled particularly in utilizing harmonic minor and melodic minor scales. His solos were full of "structural beauty," favoring composed melodies that functioned as an integral part of the track rather than improvisational, habitual licks.
• Equipment: During the MILLENIUM era, he primarily used Jackson and Ibanez guitars. He favored active pickups (such as EMG) to create a clean tone with long sustain.
• Special Note: He was a devout Catholic (despite being in Deicide, a band whose name means "god-killing"), and this spirituality is strongly reflected in MILLENIUM's lyrics ("Heaven Awaits", "My Saving Grace", etc.).

7.2 Todd Plant - Vocals

• Participating Works: Eyewitness, MILLENIUM, Angelfire, Jericho
• Style: A classic American hard rock voice. His powerful voice, extending from the mid to high range, draws comparisons to Lou Gramm (Foreigner) and Jimi Jamison (Survivor).
• Other Activities:
  • Cryptic Vision: A progressive rock band.
  • Tribute Activities: He is a "craftsman singer" who fronted numerous tribute bands primarily in Florida, including those for The Eagles (Alter Eagles), Steely Dan (Show Biz Kids), and The Doobie Brothers (China Grove).
  • Hulk Hogan: It is a lesser-known highlight of his career that he was responsible for singing Hulk Hogan's theme song, "American Made."

7.3 Jorn Lande - Vocals

• Participating Works: Hourglass
• Style: Following in the lineage of David Coverdale and Ronnie James Dio, his singing style is bluesy and powerful. He is nicknamed "The Dio of the North."
• Contribution to MILLENIUM: With his addition, the band evolved from AOR to "melodic heavy metal." His excellent songwriting abilities also contributed to the profound thematic structure of "Hourglass."

7.4 Oliver Hanson - Drums

• Participating Works: Eyewitness to Hourglass
• Style: Lacking flashiness, his style is characterized by solid drumming that supports the backbone of the songs. As a long-time ally of Santolla and a founding member of the band, he anchored the rhythm since the Eyewitness era.

8. Discography

Details of studio albums by MILLENIUM and Eyewitness are listed below. The specifications of the Japanese editions are especially important for collectors, so details are provided as thoroughly as possible.

8.1 Album List

8.2 Track Listing Details for Each Album

1. Eyewitness (1995)

Artist: Eyewitness (Pre-MILLENIUM) / Japanese Catalog Number: ALCB-3054 (Brunette)

2. MILLENIUM (1997)

Japanese Catalog Number: ALCB-3188 (Brunette) / Characteristics: A pure melodic rock work.

3. Angelfire (1999)

Japanese Catalog Number: CRCL-4505 (Now & Then) / Characteristics: Symphonic arrangement and musical maturation.

4. Hourglass (2000)

Japanese Catalog Number: CRCL-4545 (Now & Then) / Vocals: Jorn Lande / Characteristics: Masterpiece. The Japanese bonus tracks are essential.

Analysis: The Japanese bonus tracks "Rain" and "Anybody" showcase Jorn Lande's expressive power to the fullest, and many international fans purchase the Japanese edition solely for these tracks.

5. Jericho (2004)

Japanese Catalog Number: CRCL-4578 (Now & Then) / Vocals: Todd Plant

9. Discussion: What MILLENIUM Left Behind

9.1 Beyond the Label of "For the Japanese Market"

MILLENIUM is often cited as a typical example of a "Big in Japan" band. In the late 1990s, while mainstream American media completely ignored melodic rock, Japan's BURRN! magazine and labels (Brunette, Now & Then) enthusiastically supported MILLENIUM. However, the musical quality of MILLENIUM went far beyond standard arena rock. Ralph Santolla's guitar playing in particular combined the technical proficiency of Yngwie Malmsteen with the lyricism of Michael Schenker, and his subsequent success in the completely different genre of death metal proves his high musicianship.

9.2 Integration of Santolla's "Duality"

The uniqueness of Ralph Santolla as a guitarist lies in the fact that the man who played with an inverted cross in Deicide was the same individual who sang of love and God's grace in MILLENIUM. In interviews, he always stated, "I am a guitarist first and foremost, and I am not bound by genres." MILLENIUM was a place where his inner longing for "beauty" was expressed in its purest form, and its music continues to shine even after his death as a hidden masterpiece of melodic rock.

9.3 Conclusion

MILLENIUM may never have become a commercial stadium band. However, the four albums they left behind, especially "Angelfire" and "Hourglass," are miraculous crystallizations of melody born from Tampa, Florida—the heartland of death metal. Recording the exact moment where two outstanding vocalists, Todd Plant and Jorn Lande, intersected with a rare guitar hero like Ralph Santolla, these works remain a vital legacy in the history of melodic metal.