"Elements - Part I" CD by Stratovarius

After their self-subscribed break, Stratovarius return with a big band. No doubt, "Infinite" and "Hunting high and low" were impressive albums that made them mount the Metal Olympus, but with "Elements Pt.1" I dare say that the Finns have delivered their best album in years. Tight and just powerful, the 9 tracks kick ass. From the driving forward instrumental, "Stratofortress"(with an ultra cool folk-part!) via the 12-minute "Elements" with great orchestral passages plus speedy double bass parts in "Find your own voice", the boys around Timo Tolkki make everything right. The tracks are better arranged, and the performance iy beyond any doubt. "Elements Pt. 1" leaves no desires opened. Even people who preferred the early Stratovarius days because they were heavier, won¦t have to mourn. They are served, too, by a number of extremely powerful songs bursting with high positive Metal Power. On this album, Stratovarius compensate their greatest moments of the last ten years and give full serving to the high expectations of their fans. Don't worry, the first single, "Eagleheart" was a soft cake against this gateau presented on "Elements Pt.1". (Jürgen Tschamler - 11/02)