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By JEFF MAKI
Kamelot already has made a name for themselves over the course of seven studio albums with their blend of progressive, power and goth metal. Now with their eighth album, Ghost Opera, the Florida band aims to release their strongest and most complete offering yet.
Ghost Opera probably won't gain Kamelot many new fans, but most likely it will satisfy their loyal fanbase. The biggest aspect that separates the band from the many power metal acts is their use of goth elements. This isn't the happy-sounding, over-the-top style usually associated with the genre. Violins and gothic female vocals back much of the recording, while lead vocalist Khan leads the band with a strong and varied performance. Keyboardist Oliver Palotai (Doro, Blaze) recently was recruited as a full-time member, and he provides a unique atmosphere to Ghost Opera. I don't believe the album as a whole is a concept album, but the song “Ghost Opera” is about a young girl who is attacked and raped on her way to her opera-stage debut. She then wonders what the rest of her life what would have happened that night—now that's some cinematic stuff there. The song is a symphonic metal masterpiece, playing out like a cross between Blind Guardian and Savatage. It also serves as the album's first single and video. “Love You to Death” may not have the most original title, but the song is the next best thing here. Eerie electronics weave in and out of female vocals duetting with Khan's soaring melodies in this power ballad. “Mourning Star” follows the same formula. They should really have this female vocalist join the band permanently. Her vocals are a perfect contrast to Khan's very "metal" style. Guitarist Thomas Youngblood has to be one of the best in progressive metal with his memorable '80s-style guitar solos.
Overall, I see why Kamelot is looked upon in such awe after hearing Ghost Opera. They rely on atmosphere rather than aggression, creating a mood and almost hypnotizing the listener. As the title suggests, there is certainly an operatic feel to this, with many highs and lows and a dramatic feel. Ghost Opera is another great album for fans of Kamelot. Though not recommended for die-hard extreme metal listeners, adventurous metal fans will surely want to add this to their collection. |
