Review
Power metal enthusiasts, buckle up! "Aeronautics" by Masterplan is a sonic behemoth that showcases the band's mastery of the genre. With a dream team comprising Jørn Lande's soaring vocals, Roland Grapow's fretboard wizardry, Jan S. Eckert's thunderous bass, Axel Mackenrott's keyboard sorcery, and Uli Kusch's pounding drums, this 2005 release is a force to be reckoned with.
From the opening salvo of "Crimson Rider," it's clear that Masterplan is on a mission to melt faces with their furious, take-no-prisoners approach. Other highlights include "Back for My Life," "Headbanger's Ballroom," and "Into the Arena," which boast infectious hooks and bone-crushing riffs. Even the reworked Iron Savior track "After This War" gets a refresh, adding a new layer of depth to the proceedings.
Production-wise, "Aeronautics" is a gleaming, high-fidelity behemoth that puts every instrument in the spotlight. Jørn Lande's powerful, emotive vocals are the cherry on top, imbuing each track with a sense of grit and determination. Throw in the bonus track "Treasure World" and you've got an album that's an absolute must-listen for power metal aficionados. - Chase