It is sad but true that power metal isn’t at its peak nowadays. However, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t released good albums of the genre. Take for example the new album by Kilmara, which will fascinate all the power metal enthusiasts … Coming from Barcelona, these guys really love power metal, truly know how to play good power metal and are inspired enough to compose songs, which will keep you in tension. This time the Spanish band pays tribute to the late 80s and the arcade culture, taking us on a wonderful trip back in time. Just like video games, the music of Kilmara is old-fashioned and follows clichés, but that doesn’t mean that “Journey to the Sun” is a dated piece of music. To the contrary, Kilmara give their own touch to the European power metal style and in general, they have their way to say things. If you are into power metal, I am sure you will love this album, its interesting song ideas, the intricate guitar work, the warm vocals, the solid rhythm section, the synths! The production of the band’s new member Carles Salse (guitar, synths) is ideal and boosts the heaviness, the melodicity and the artistry of the new songs. “Journey to the Sun” is a complete, yet demanding album. Don’t stop listening to it, as it will soon showcase its virtues! Just to let you know, the album contains a guest vocal performance by Daniel Heiman (Lost Horizon), which gives to the final result extra points. This is a must listen for all the ones, who miss power metal’s glory days.
♦ 8/10
Dimitris Zacharopoulos