Featuring their unique brand of Melodic Prog-Metal with classical inclinations, Royal Hunt returns to the map with their latest release Fear. Led by master musician, songwriter, and producer Andre Andersen, Royal Hunt has been growing and maturing as a band through the 90's, having had massive success with their controversial 1996 release Paradox. Now they're back! Fear is another theme-based album from the depths of Andersen's mind. It is clear that Royal Hunt is his vision and I for one am glad he's sharing it with us. Gone from the mix is vocalist D.C. Cooper, replaced by the awesome John West (Badlands, Artension, Cozy Powell). And what a difference it makes! Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed Cooper's vocals on Paradox, but it is seldom you come across a vocal talent such as John West. And he makes his presence felt from the beginning of the album. His soulful, melodic vocals soar throughout this record. Oh, and there's plenty of shred! Guitarist Jacob Kjaer's melodic playing makes me wonder why he isn't mentioned in guitar magazines all over the world. And Steen Mogensen's bass licks rank right up there with any bass player out there today. Drummer Allan Sorensen provides a steady, fiery backbeat to Andersen's complex arrangements. And the songwriting is simply amazing. Every song captures your soul.

Here's the track by track review:
1. Fear - A great intro song with awesome vocals.
2. Faces of War - Another classic in the making. Check out the intro bass lines, killer guitar solo and of course, John West. Also, check out Andersen's Keyboard wizardry.
3. Cold City Lights - Upbeat rocker with great hooks. Awesome solo.
4. Lies - (MetalGod's Pick) The Heaviest tune on the album, it features more Axe-Shredding from Kjaer and a rippin' West scream at the end.
5. Follow Me - A beautiful ballad that really showcases John West's melodic voice and Andersen's songwriting prowess.
6. Voices - A fast-paced rocker with a catchy chorus.
7. Sea of Time - The album closer is an 8 minute epic that will have prog-metal fans salivating.

It's time for everyone to discover Royal Hunt. This band should be HUGE, and hopefully they will be after this awesome release. If you're a fan of heavy, melodic music with soaring vocals, rippin' guitars, or a fan of some serious Prog-Metal, like me, you need to pick this up RIGHT NOW!!! Full of musical sheen, lyrical prowess and utter brilliance, Fear is Royal Hunt's Magnum Opus.

-MetalGod

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