Borealis - Purgatory

A poignant cover considering the dark thematic content of this concept album from Borealis.Ontario, Canada may not be the first place you think of when you think melodic power metal, but the lads in Borealis will no doubt change your mind with their latest album, Purgatory. After their first two albums made a name for them on the scene, they've matured into a musical force to be reckoned with in the vein of Symphony X, and that's some rarified air in this subgenre, my friends.

But don't mistake this album for a simple cloning of another successful band's signature sound for fun and profit. This is a fully realized album from start to finish with some nice orchestral touches, and vocals from fellow Canuck Sarah Dee, that help lend a grander feel to the proceedings. And, by the way, the members of Borealis each have chops to spare - from the soaring vocals of singer/guitarist Matt Marinelli (seriously, this guy sounds great) to the confident bombast of drummer Sean Dowell, there's enough going on in this band to merit an objective listen. This is an up and coming young band that has the goods to play alongside genre greats like Evergrey or Stratovarius. And that ain't hay, people. 

The Bottom Line: You can never have enough really good melodic power metal, and thankfully there's another band to help you get your fix: Borealis. This concept album, based on a child trapped in purgatory, contains some great moments that belong in your ears. 'Nuff said!

Tracks To Play Your Friends Who Don't Listen To Power Metal: From The Ashes, Destiny, Darkest Sin, My Peace, and Place of Darkness

- Genghis broke into a sweat jamming to this album...