The sequel to one of 2007's best releases Framing Armageddon: Something Wicked Part 1 is here. After hearing the preceding release of "I Walk Alone" I couldn't wait for the full album. The replacement of vocalist Tim "Ripper" Owens was a disappointment, as I really enjoyed his time with Iced Earth and still believe he was worthy of the role. Not that Matt Barlow is any slouch- not by far, he proves on here he is also capable of hitting the high notes when needed. As you would expect from Iced Earth the artwork on this one is cool as ever and quite dark.
There is many a contribution on The Crucible of Man- it's quite a list but Jon Schaffer handled the majority of guitar, bass, keyboards and backing vocals like the true master he is. Matt Barlow returns with his powerful vocals much to the joy of fans and drummer Brett Smedley does another stellar job, duplicating Jon's guitar riffs with his feet as he always seems to do so capably.
The story of the Something Wicked saga concludes in style. That trademark riff is present and would it be an Iced Earth CD without it? I think not. The production is as crisp as ever. This album takes the listener on an epic journey, as with part 1 there are many fantastic tracks on here for fans to digest. There are too many classic moments on here to list, but you have to love the big choruses like that on "Divide Devour". Jon's guitar work and Brett's drumming make this easily as good as Framing Armageddon, maybe even better, but regardless this release is another best of 2008 candidate, so go get it.
One last thing, now that the sequel is out can we please have another Demons and Wizards?
Track Listing
1 . In Sacred Flames
2 . Behold the Wicked Child
3 . Minions of the Watch
4 . The Revealing
5 . A Gift Or A Curse?
6 . Crown of the Fallen
7 . The Dimension Gauntlet
8 . I Walk Alone
9 . Harbinger of Fate
10 . Crucify the King
11 . Sacrificial Kingdoms
12 . Something Wicked (Part 3)
13 . Divide Devour
14 . Come What May
15 . Epilogue
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