In the late 1990’s two countries ruled the power metal scene: Finland and Germany, and at the very front of the Finnish movement was Stratovarius. And at the peak of their career before internal turmoil changed the band forever they released two of the best power metal albums ever: “Visions” and “Destiny”.
earMUSIC has decided to reissue my favourite Stratovarius album “Destiny” and the double live album “Visions of Europe Live” that followed, both in re-mastered versions. The “Destiny” issue has 3 extra bonus track along with a 10 track live album, recorded in Finland in 2009. The “Visions of Europe Live” offers no extras compared to the original, which was originally released in 1998.
You can always question the need for a re-issue… and even thought the sound has improved a lot, the question is: “who will buy this album”? New updated cover artwork and booklet, better sound and two essential power metal albums is on offer – maybe something for you?
Ratings:
Destiny – 90/100
Visions of Europe Live – 75/100
Tracklist:
CD1 –
1. Destiny
2. S.O.S.
3. No Turning Back
4. 4000 Rainy Nights
5. Rebel
6. Years Go By
7. Playing With Fire
8. Venus In The Morning
9. Anthem Of The World
Bonus Tracks
10. Cold Winter Nights (European Edition Bonus Track)
11. Dream With Me (Japanese Edition Bonus Track)
12. Blackout (US Edition bonus track)
CD2 – Visions Of Destiny
1. Destiny
2. Paradise
3. Speed Of Light
4. S.O.S.
5. Anthem Of The World
6. Forever
7. Black Diamond
8. The Kiss Of Judas
9. Distant Skies
10. Forever
Playing Time: 67:58 + 68:27
Release date: October 21, 2016
Label: earMUSIC
Tracklist:
CD1
1. Intro
2. Forever Free
3. Kiss Of Judas
4. Father Time
5. Distant Skies
6. Season Of Change
7. Speed Of Light
8. Twilight Symphony
9. Holy Solos
CD2
1. Visions
2. Will The Sun Rise?
3. Forever
4. Black Diamond
5. Against The Wind
6. Paradise
7. Legions
Playing Time: 53:53 + 44:18
Release date: October 21, 2016
Label: earMUSIC
Website: www.stratovarius.com
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