Edguy - Mandrake

Country: Germany      Genre: Glam Metal, Power Metal

Though quite popular in Europe, Edguy has hardly registered in the US. And that's a shame, because photogenic frontman, Tobias Sammet, could be the poster boy for a revitalization of Metal videos on MTV or VH1. Their music is pretty good too, though Edguy probably belongs more to the late 80's than to today's Metal scene. Their polished sound, attractive vocalist with incredible range, and unapologetic straight-ahead style would have allowed them to fit in perfectly next to bands like Queensryche, Europe, and the Scorpions.

In today's scene, they feel slightly out of place to me, but they do what they do with so much sincerity and emotion that you don't mind at all. Though there's a lot to be said for Edguy's keyboard and guitar work, what they do well (perhaps better than any other band out there) are vocals. And the reason is Tobias Sammet, who loves what he does and puts all his heart and soul into it. Edguy does very cool choruses, bridges, and other vocal things that I don't know the terms for. But I do know that Sammet, whether he's fronting Edguy or his solo projects like Avantasia, makes interesting music I like - even love sometimes.

Edguy's 1997 debut, Kingdom Of Madness, was recorded while the band members were still teenagers. They certainly don't act their age. Everything about the band would lead you to believe they are long-time veterans of the Metal scene. Mandrake, Edguy's fifth album, is a well-oiled, well-rehearsed album with big choruses, big riffs, and great vocals.

Fans of melodic, Power Metal like Angra or Stratovarius will delight in Edguy. You'll realize after only a few minutes of listening that they're not out to shake up the Metal world. They clearly play by the rules. And they're certainly at the top of their class.

Reviewed by: John Love