Elegy were formed in Holland in ’86 and this is their sixth album. It was released back in ’98 and they seemed to call it a day after 2002’s Principle Of Pain, but I heard a little whisper that they are getting back together to record a new album.
Although a Dutch band, they have had British singer Ian Parry on vocals since ’96. The Prog/power metal genre is so overcrowded with bands vying for your attention that if you don’t have that magic ingredient you will disappear as soon as you surface. Elegy managed to survive by releasing classy albums and touring the euro circuit while the rest of the world was only aware of them in small pockets.
This is a double vinyl reissue on Night Of The Vinyl Dead and it’s a really nice pressing, as most of theirs are. Parry’s vocals do have a hint of the Dio’s at times, although in a slightly higher register. That, coupled with Henk Van der Laars’ ripping leads and huge riffage make this a great record. Of the twelve tracks on offer here my highlights are the fat riffage of Savage Grace, the epic Master Of Deception, and the totally awesome title track (and my personal fave) Metamorphosis.
A huge chunk of DT-style riffing always goes down well with me. I hope they get it together to put out another record but if not, they have left behind a fine body of work.
8.5/10 from The Grooveman.
