2024, and 27 years have passed, since the release of Rhapsody of Fire’s phenomenal debut album, “Legendary Tales”. Rhapsody of Fire are still alive and kicking, yet so many things have changed – Rhapsody of Fire is now the band of keyboardist Alex Staropoli, the lineup changes are numerous and Fabio Lione and Luca Turilli aren’t anymore in the band. Giacomo Voli is now on the microphone and the Italians release their new album, “Challenge the Wind”. So, are Rhapsody of Fire in their new incarnation still interesting? Yes, because their new album is a brilliantly crafted opus, that carries the signature sound of the band and has many good ideas that will thrill the listener from the first to the last note. The die-hard fans will be satisfied and the power metal enthusiasts will have another reason to be happy. This is not a masterpiece like the first Rhapsody albums, but it’s for sure a nice release that deserves your attention. If you’re not a fan, “Challenge the Wind” is a good start for you to get familiar with the Italian power metallers. During the 69 minutes of the ten new songs you will find soaring vocals, blazing guitars, thunderous drums and beautifully produced arrangements, ingredients which make this new work a real banger! One of the best releases of the power metal genre in 2024, it decently and proudly bears the name of Rhapsody of Fire and brings us a smile: Alex Staropoli is doing – again – a great job, my friends!
♦ 7,5/10
Dimitris Zacharopoulos
