The Eighth Mountain

The Eighth Mountain is a fulfilling work on which Rhapsody of Fire again splendidly binds a grand fantasy world and speeding power metal in a strongly narrative construction. It is the first work of the new lineup, welcoming the accomplished Giacomo Voli as the new vocalist. Orchestration, solemn choirs, fast twin guitars and weighty rhythm unite, and the songs powerfully open scenes of an adventure tale one after another from the start. Despite the decoration-rich sound, its main melody and the outline of the choruses are extremely clear. From the development from the opener “Abyss of Pain” to “Seven Heroic Deeds” and the drama of “Master of Peace” to a cut like “Rain of Fury,” every song is engaging, while cuts like “White Wizard” and “Warrior Heart” convey the work’s fullness. Giacomo Voli’s powerful, expressive voice splendidly drives that grand world. A record on which, in fiercely running songs the riffs’ drive and lifting choruses come to the fore, and in songs valuing drama the voice’s expression and the orchestra’s shading deepen the story. The outstanding skill of treating classical elements, film-music scale and heavy metal’s straight drive as one language is vividly shown here too. A powerful, engaging masterpiece showing the sure fullness of the new lineup — a record where the band’s new departure shines.