While the ocean of power/progressive metal stretches endlessly, Crystal Throne arrive to stir its calm waters. They accomplish this with the release of “Chantry of Sacrifice”, the French metallers’ second album, a record made with remarkable skill that radiates elegance and beauty. Drawing inspiration from the great names of power and progressive metal, such as Queensrÿche, Crimson Glory, Dream Theater, Symphony X, and others, Crystal Throne have created something truly distinctive. They may not be reinventing the wheel, but they have forged a sound that is unmistakably their own by filtering their influences through their personal talent, vision, technical prowess, abundant emotion, and a fascinating science-fiction concept that keeps the listener fully engaged from the opening note to the very last. Vocalist Terry Defire delivers an outstanding performance, the guitars of Max Waynn and John L weave an intricate and memorable web, the arrangements are nothing short of impressive, the musical themes are consistently exciting, and the melodies provide the final, essential touch that brings everything together. The production and overall sound are impeccable, making it immediately clear that this is a mature, cohesive, and meticulously crafted album that fans of the genre are bound to embrace. That said, “Chantry of Sacrifice” is a richly layered work that demands repeated listens before revealing its full depth. In the end, it stands as a superb and masterfully executed power/progressive metal album that every fan of the genre has been waiting for. So, when it arrives this October, don’t let it pass you by. Grab a copy and enjoy it. Releases of this caliber deserve to be celebrated enthusiastically.
♦ 9/10
Dimitris Zacharopoulos
