Can you just imagine back in 1984 Helsinki, Finland three band mates from the band Black Water getting together and form the legendary band Stratovarius. Twenty-one years later Stratovarius has just released their latest self-titled CD.  

Through personnel changes and various obstacles, many thought the band would no longer release material. Timo Kotipelto lead vocalist for the band released a fantastic solo CD “Coldness” last year and it looked like the day has come for Stratovarius to disappear into the wilderness. But they took time out to settle down, work on the problems that arose. In an interview we did this year with Kotipelto he was not even sure of the future plans for Stratovarius. However, time can only heal and today we have the new release.

Stratovarius still shows the melodic power that is brought together by Kotipelto’s high-potency vocals, which is one of the best in the business. The band takes a totally different approach to their music with “Maniac Dance” that has a pop style with those mesmerizing vocals and killer guitar riffs. Timo Tolkki’s guitar work on the release has flashes of brilliance. Yet he is so underrated and has not reached the potential status that he deserves. Kotipelto shines on “Just Carry On” which is a tremendous song that brings the vocal range up front and the music set low. Kotipelto is the nucleus of Stratovarius. No matter what he sings, he makes that an entity of classic, which is hard to find in music today. Jens Johansson takes hold of the reeds and makes his presence known.

Johansson is a gem that many bands want as a special guest on their CD’s and if time allows he permits. Stratovarius make this CD joyful even though there are some low spots. It's a good CD that will put the band back on the road to recovery. The last track “United” gives the feel of Iron Maiden meets Helloween and is a good finale to a good CD.