With great albums like the epic vampire tale that was Dust To Dust, the ever dependable French band Heavenly have continually impressed and helped keep European Power Metal alive and strong.
Heavenly's fifth album Carpe Diem is a treasure chest full of more prominent Euro power metal, released in the latter part of 2009 in some areas of the world (release is upcoming in the US), and it's without a doubt the best release of its type I have heard in recent times. As for the spicy cover art, I wonder if the inspiration came from that kiss between those two well known female celebrities...
One department that is always a highlight of Heavenly's songs is the vocals; well, on Carpe Diem Heavenly have done it again. The wonderful multiple male vocals return with great effect, and vocalist Ben Sotto has no problem hitting those high notes when necessary, they even have a Queen vibe on track three "Farewell" where even the guitar sound is very Brian May like, and singer Ben does a great Freddy Mercury style vocal performance. Actually Carpe Diem could be described as a combo of Euro power metal and Queen including a splash of Beethoven with"Ode To Joy". The very appealing song "A Better Me" is a great blend as Queen meets power metal, then again Heavenly aren't fearful of taking some surprising twists and turns in their music. New drummer Piwee is a great addition; Piwee gets to show off his skills on opening and title track "Carpe Diem", with his inspired kick patterns. Of course there are your more traditional Heavenly tracks like "Lost In Your Eyes" and "Ashen Paradise". Basically, Carpe Diem has a lot to enjoy.
Fans of acts like Gamma Ray and Freedom Call can't go wrong with Heavenly's releases including Carpe Diem. Those that relish this form of European metal will unquestionably get their money's worth and then some.
Track list:
1.Carpe Diem
2.Lost In Your Eyes
3.Farewell
4.Fullmoon
5.A Better Me
6.Ashen Paradise
7.The Face Of The Truth
8.Ode To Joy
9.Save Our Souls
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