Yet another concept album subtitled Metal Opera, the former Stratovarius guitarist has surrounded himself with a wealth of vocal talent, old and new. Most of the male lyrics are handled by Rob Rock, ably aided by Russell Allen (Symphony X), Tony Kakko (Sonata Arctica) and the ever closer to returning as a metal frontman Michael Kiske (ex-Helloween). Apart from the 8:53 concluding, symphonic strings accompanied title track (where Kiske is in charge), only Rock is allowed the solo spotlight, the others employed in unison. When it comes to female voices, Elize Rand (Amaranthe, backing Kamelot) is showcased, alone, with the ensemble or in duet (‘Shine”) with Sharon den Adel (Within Temptation). Ironically, twelve years ago Tolkki, den Adel, Rock and Kiske were involved in the initial pair of Avantasia albums, also called “The Metal Opera” (parts I and II)! Rhapsody Of Fire drummer Alex Holzwarth also reprises his role. Kicking off as a rollicking, double bass driven romp, the opening ‘Avalanche Anthem’ settles into orchestral soundtrack, with guest spots by Rock, Rand & Allen (could be a law firm!).

The same trio follows on the more up-tempo, Nightwish-lite structured ‘A World Without Us’, Rand playing a more prominent role. The aforementioned fem-metal duet just reconfirms Tolkki (like many of his countrymen/women) has been listening to a lot of Tuomas Holopainen (Nightwish keyboardist/ mastermind) creations. Speaking of Finns, Kakko only appears on ‘We Will Find A Way’ (alongside Rock), a speedy slice of traditional power metal. Later, there’s a similar minded, Rock-only sung pair: the airy, ‘Magic Of The Night’ and lively ‘The Edge Of The World’, where guitarist finally shows a little solo work, briefly trading licks with former bandmate / keyboardist Jens Johansson. Rand offers an acoustic-begun ballad, ‘I’ll Sing You Home’, prior to the concluding Kiske extravaganza. Apparently Tolkki plans to make a trilogy out of the story, this album being the climax. Never done things the usual way!