When it comes to symphonic power metal, one of the first names that comes to mind is Rhapsody of Fire, a band that has shared the stage with giants like Blind Guardian and Angra. Over their nearly 30-year history, they’ve built a legacy based on storytelling that goes beyond drama and music. Released in May 2024, the band’s 15th studio album, Challenge The Wind, continues this tradition while pushing boundaries with a more intense and focused approach. The band proves that they are not resting on their laurels by delivering a final album filled with creativity, mastery, and emotional resonance.

Thematically, Challenge The Wind embarks on an exploration of the heroic potential within all of us. Guitarist Roberto De Micheli explains the concept: “Anyone can be a hero—not by birth, but through actions and personal growth.” Themes of self-discovery and determination persist throughout the album, seamlessly merging music with the themes of personal identity and overcoming challenges first introduced in their 2021 album, Glory For Salvation.

From its opening moments, Challenge The Wind proves its worth without delay. The title track bursts forth with an exhilarating energy defined by the fast riffs and soaring melodies that have come to define the band’s career. This opening showcases guitarist Roberto De Micheli’s masterful musicianship, with intricate solos interwoven with Alex Staropoli’s keyboard arrangements, creating a rich soundscape that sets the stage for the ambitious journey of the album.

Whispers of Doom and The Bloody Pariah stand out as tracks that seamlessly blend brutality with elegance on the album. These songs deliver the grandeur fans have come to expect, with dazzling solos, intricate arrangements, and anthem-like choruses. De Micheli’s neo-classical guitar touches take the spotlight, while the rhythmic foundation is solidly built upon drummer Paolo Marchesich and bassist Alessandro Sala’s compositions. One of the album’s standout moments is Vanquished By Shadows, a 17-minute epic journey. This track takes listeners on an emotional and tempo-shifting ride, transitioning from triumphant, folk-inspired melodies to darker and more disorienting midsections. Concluding in a symphonic climax, the song wraps up at the speed of classic power metal. Vocalist Giacomo Voli delivers a masterful performance, unexpectedly incorporating black-metal-inspired vocals into the mix. This track stands as a musical epic that encapsulates the album’s thematic and artistic ambitions. Rhapsody of Fire maintains the album’s momentum and power with Kreel’s Magic Staff, ensuring the listener’s attention is firmly held throughout.

It is noteworthy that Challenge The Wind does not include a traditional ballad, a common feature in the genre. While some fans may miss the softer and more emotional moments, the album compensates with its relentless energy and intensity. Tracks like Diamond Claws and Black Wizard distill the band’s symphonic side into short yet impactful melodic compositions, each bursting with character. Staropoli’s keyboard arrangements, reminiscent of film soundtracks, add depth and texture, creating a sound that aligns perfectly with the album’s theme.

A Brave New Hope starts with an epic, almost MANOWAR-like melody, carried by strong riffs at a measured pace. The orchestral arrangements are less prominent compared to other tracks on the album. However, things change when it comes to the choruses. During these sections, the tempo becomes fast and memorable, featuring chant-like lines that invite collective singing.

Holy Downfall, with its chorus and rich instrumentation, creates pure power metal magic and prepares to captivate listeners. On the other hand, the album’s closing track, Mastered By The Dark, steps into darker territory with somber acoustic passages and brooding mid-tempo riffs. The layered vocal harmonies and symphonic structure of the song build to a dramatic finale, crowning the album with a majestic atmosphere.

For fans of symphonic metal and power metal, Challenge The Wind is a must-listen album. With its combination of technical mastery, emotional depth, and dramatic flair, it establishes itself as one of the most remarkable releases of 2024. At the heart of the album’s success lies the chemistry between Staropoli and De Micheli. Together, they create a dynamic interplay that delivers the album’s most memorable moments. Bolstered by Voli’s rich vocal range, the material is elevated to an even higher level.

Rhapsody of Fire’s journey has been filled with challenges. The departure of key members like Luca Turilli and Fabio Lione could have shaken any other band. However, albums like Eighth Mountain and Glory For Salvation marked the band’s rebirth, and Challenge The Wind continues this ascent.

Miray Kurt

Performing in Turkey for the first time in their career, Rhapsody of Fire will take the stage at IF Beşiktaş in Istanbul on May 18, 2025. Tickets for the concert are available on Passo, Biletix, and BiletiniAl!