The Song Fight Bulletin Board

So my friend showed me this sweet finnish power metal band - Sonata Arctica, and I totally liked them. Then about a month later, I find out that they were in Calgary (where I love) just a few months ago, and a guy I know and his band opened for them. Do any of you like them?

Woah - it's been a while. I bought Unia a week ago, and I've listened to the album about 15 times since. Tony Kakko's voice has developed so much, and his vocal harmonies are reminiscent of Freddy Mercury (vaguely - the voices themselves are not too similar). Not to mention that, but he's a great songwriter. Jani Liimatainen is my favorite guitarist, and Tommy Portimo is a really tight drummer. The songs are really full of emotion.

Now, if you're intrigued, I have to mention this. There is a bit of prog on this album. DON'T LEAVE YET!!!! They avoid pointless musical breaks and solos, and every song has a good melodic hook. They have eliminated most of the stigma they gained by previously being a power metal band. If you're into downloading before buying, I'd recommend 'It Won't Fade' and 'Caleb' for fans of heavier prog stuff. For the softer, unproggy side, I'd recommend 'Under Your Tree' and 'Good Enough is Good Enough'.

I honestly hope you guys check this out - I love this cd more than any other that I have owned. It surpasses any Genesis or Dream Theater cd in my list right now. That's saying a lot.

Hey JR,

Sonata Arctica did Revolver's "The Unit" this month. Since the month is almost over you only have a short amount of time to grab up the song they did. It's Da Best Song Ever.

http://www.revolvermag.com/theunit/index.html

Cool! The mixing isn't as good as usual, but the song is fun. Thanks for mentioning that!

jolly roger wrote:Cool! The mixing isn't as good as usual

Why would it be? It's The Unit. It's essentially a song skirmish or 55 minute frenzy. Revolver brings their portable gear to a band and says "Make a song. Go!" and ta-da.