Elyna Kahn
Today’s journey takes us back to 2010, a year marked by a memorable musical landscape. Epic albums like The Wicked Symphony by Avantasia, At the Edge of Time by Blind Guardian, What Lies Beneath by Tarja Turunen, and The Frozen Tears of an Angel by Rhapsody of Fire emerged, becoming essential cornerstones in Power/Symphonic Metal. At the same time, 2010 saw devastating natural disasters. On February 27th, a massive 8.8 magnitude earthquake followed by a mega tsunami claimed hundreds of lives in Chile. Just two weeks later, Japan was struck by another powerful earthquake, leaving destruction in its wake.
Amidst this devastation, hope emerged (for us Metalheads) from Japan with Resurrection, the sixth album by Galneryus. It embodied a sense of rebirth, rising from the ashes, showing how Metal can provide strength and solace even in the hardest times. I started listening to Galneryus a few months ago, thanks to a friend who passionately recommended them—and he was absolutely right. Once you hear one song, you’re hooked, and it’s hard to stop. Neurodivergents will understand: the goosebumps, endless loops, and total immersion.
While Galneryus was influenced by classic Power, Progressive, and Neoclassical Power Metal bands like Stratovarius, Sonata Arctica, Helloween, and Rhapsody, Galneryus elevate the genre to new heights. Its talent, innovation, and chemistry are unmatched. Apart from my beloved Angra (both the Matos and Falaschi eras), I can’t recall another band that has had such a profound impact on my Metalhead soul. In my opinion, Galneryus is the best Neoclassical Progressive Power Metal band in the world.
Resurrection marked the debut of Masatoshi Ono on vocals and Taka on bass, both contributing to the album’s epic story told across eleven tracks. The album opens with the stunning intro “United Blood,” setting the stage for “Burn My Heart,” one of the most impressive songs in the genre. With its dynamic tempo, flawless vocal lines, striking melodic foundation, and the unmistakable riffs of the legendary Syu, “Burn My Heart” is a deeply overwhelming experience. “Emotions” is an intense instrumental guitar odyssey by Syu, ranked 73rd among the best instrumental guitar compositions by Young Guitar in 2019. Meanwhile, “Destiny” is a masterclass in Neoclassical Power Metal at full speed, with impeccable vocals and memorable guitar and keyboard solos.
Production-wise, Resurrection is a perfect introduction to Galneryus. The eleven tracks are sequenced in a way that allows the sonic and lyrical narrative to flow seamlessly. The album’s sound quality is exceptional, on par with the highest production standards of the time. Melodically, Resurrection fuses several subgenres, ensuring each track resonates differently, etching its way into the soundtrack of any Metalhead’s life. Each instrument is given equal prominence, creating a balanced sound where no part overshadows another, except for the guitar, which naturally takes center stage in this genre. The vocal transition from Yama-B to Masatoshi Ono was a refreshing change. Ono brought a new energy to the band and solidified himself as one of the best vocalists in the genre, with a technique that leaves listeners breathless.
In conclusion, Resurrection by Galneryus is not just a refuge for the soul during hard times, but a masterpiece and an invaluable gem of Neoclassical Power Metal. Its epic melodies and flawless production create a religious experience. With Masatoshi Ono debuting on vocals and Taka Ono on bass, Galneryus redefined the genre, cementing themselves as the best Neoclassical Power Metal band ever—and they do it not from Westeros, but from Japan, the land of the rising sun. That’s it for now, folks. Over and out.
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Label: VAP
Release date: 23 June, 2010
Website: https://www.facebook.com/galneryus.jp
Country: Japan
Score: Corny power forever!
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