Unfortunately Fabio Lione is no longer the lead vocalist for the melodic metal band Hollow Haze. Fabio appeared on their last album Countdown To Revenge in 2013, and really though his absence is of no surprise with commitments to both Rhapsody Of Fire and Angra. On the bright side in his place Hollow Haze have called upon not one but five notable vocalists to guest on their latest release. With Amanda Somerville (Avantasia, Kiske-Sommerville), Claudia Layline (Serenade), Mats Leven (ex. Therion and Yngwie Malmsteen), Ivan Giannini (Derdian) and Rick Altzi (Masterplan, ex. Thunderstone). This talented line-up appear on the Hollow Haze album Memories Of An Ancient Time which apparently is the second chapter of a trilogy that started with Countdown to Revenge. Memories Of An Ancient Time sounds great but then it was mastered by Mika Jussila (Nightwish, Apocalyptica, Children Of Bodom) and that cover artwork sure does look impressive.
Memories Of An Ancient Time begins with "Out in the Darkness" an atmospheric introduction that leads us to the rapid European power metal of "Rain of Fire Lights". "Created To Live" is loaded with more animated drumming, vibrant keyboards, appealing vocal combinations and that potent guitar. Hollow Haze take a breather from the speed for "An Ancient Story" a powerful song as the keyboards and guitar steer the way and the male/female vocals reel you in. Hollow Haze have made great use of the multiple vocalists which have allowed for added variety. It is always a positive to hear a band trying something different, and "Eyes of the Sphinx" one my standouts features what I suppose you could call Egyptian orchestral power metal. If you like a rich blend of keyboards then tracks such as "Eyes of the Sphinx", "Night Is Calling" and "Angeli di Fuoco" sure have that.
Memories Of An Ancient Time is the sixth album from this Italian group, and I'm sure it will keep their fans very satisfied till the next one.
Track Listing
1. Out in the Darkness (Intro)
2. Rain of Fire Lights
3. Created to Live
4. An Ancient Story
5. A New Era
6. Night Is Calling
7. Angeli di Fuoco
8. Silvertown
9. Eyes of the Sphinx
10. Lance of Destiny
11. Demon
12. Gate to the Eternity
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