From Bandcamp, "FAUST. Act I: Prelude to Darkness" is a concept album divided into two parts, inspired by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's timeless masterpiece, Faust. This narrative delves into the depths of the human soul, exploring the conflict between ambition and morality, and the relentless search for meaning. Each track reflects a different aspect of Faust's inner journey, featuring powerful riffs, intense vocal sections, and keyboards and synths that amplify the story's dramatic tension.” The album has 12 songs, and “Prologue in Heaven” is first. It has sweeping symphonic parts and an overall feeling of haste, and even wonder.

“Strive” is the first proper track, and out of the gate, I am struck with the band’s high level of musicianship, especially in the glittering lead work of guitarist Riccardo Toni. The song also has a nice balance between the charge Power Metal and the complexity of Progressive Metal. “Nothing Really Matters” has a higher emotional quality, and guest vocalist James Labrie (DREAM THEATER) is a welcomed guest on vocals. “Look into Your Eyes” has that familiar gallop of Power Metal and the riff is augmented with keyboards. The musicianship is excellent once again, and it’s obvious that these guys can perform.

“Prologue of John” is a short connecting piece to the second half of the album. “In Principium” is a slower song that accentuates the bands emotional vision for the album. It is plenty sturdy, but it also has a lot of melody. “Dance of Darkness” is indeed a darker sound, as well as a song with more weight, and thick bass notes emerge from the bottom. It makes me wish the band would feature bassist Daniele a little more. “The Covenant” is the final connecting song to the last three on the album, and the tale thickens. “Carpe Diem” is a cry to “seize the day,” as the saying goes. The riff is animated, and the vocals have a rough edge to them.

“Fly” is full of drama, and cinema, and the heavy charge of Power Metal really comes through strong. It beguiles the listener to rise up and face his challenges head on. “New Life” wraps up the tale, with a positive ending. I love the piano and keyboard parts. Overall, this was an excellent album. The band’s musicianship is as good as anyone else out there, and they put together a melodic and memorable album that really just hints at the talent that these guys have. I can’t wait to hear where they go from here.