KC Podcast - Episode 117: Passing the Baton

Highly Recommended

Take a group of German musicians steeped in ancient myth and epic from Homer to the Bible, and from darker Celtic and Norse traditions. Add the heavy influence of such modern mythmakers as J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Stephen King, and Michael Moorcock. Throw in the sweeping epic scope of opera, the power and drive of speed metal, melodies reminiscent of German classical music, an orchestra, and large choral arrangements. Allow to simmer for twenty years. What do you have? The answer is Blind Guardian: probably one of the best bands out there today. And since I took down my music links on the side of the page, I thought I’d give one last plea in post form: check these guys out. They are indeed amazing, with majestic and often haunting lyrics, and songs about such diverse subject matter as Jesus “The Martyr” and Judas “Sadly Sings Destiny” to their 15 minute masterpiece “And Then There was Silence,” the story of Cassandra, prophetess of doom at Troy. Great for those who love history, myth, or fantasy, or simply enjoy great music.


Recommendation: For those not used to metal, I would suggest beginning with the album Nightfall in Middle Earth, and wading in from there.

Comments

Erica said…
\m/>.<\m/
I just had to use that happy little symbol ;-)
I've been on a bit of a Blind Guardian fix lately :-)
Anonymous said…
They are still around?

-Derek
Rick Davis said…
This comment has been removed by the author.
Rick Davis said…
Not only are they still around, but they've come a very long way from their roots in speed metal as Lucifer's Blood. They just released a new album. Also the lead vocalist, Hansi, is working on a side project writing an entirely orchestral album (no drums or guitars) inspired by Tolkien's Lord of the Rings trilogy. It's set for a 2008 release date.
Rick Davis said…
Lucifer's Heritage, not Lucifer's Blood.
oops.
Dale Melchin said…
You're going to scare them...