If you're looking for something mysterious with a flair for the dramatic, look no further than FORBIDDEN SEED's sophomore album "The Grand Masquerade". An enchanting glimpse of Power Metal's more theatric side, and no one can say FORBIDDEN SEED doesn't put on a memorable performance. Constantin Maris isn't your typical Power Metal vocalist. He doesn't steer away from any range that isn't exclusively falsetto. The band itself isn't your average Power Metal band, either. They have no need for over the top overtures or cinematic orchestras to shadow their choruses.

The title track "The Grand Masquerade" is in its own league. With Thrash-inspired riffs and throbbing bass notes, the band knows how to mix up a genre. "Into Nevermore" is menacing in its delivery, threatening to strike you down with its full weight. It's a harrowing world of treachery and pain FORBIDDEN SEED weaves. For a genre that preaches being the hero to your journey and fighting for what you love, FORBIDDEN SEED draws on lyrical themes of heartbreak and longing that sound more fit for bands of Black Metal.

Instrumental songs like "Intro", "The Gathering", and "The Wanderer" showcase the true potential of each of the members' playing abilities, and said playing is intense! It's crisp and refined without losing its aggro, in your face appeal. "Siege of the Fallen" features a lovely intro of traditional acoustics and wind instruments before pummeling you to the floor after luring you in with a false sense of security.

"The Grand Masquerade" carries a strong sense of mysticism about it, losing all sense of time listening through the whole album. FORBIDDEN SEED draws you into their world and surrounds you with their sound that's a force of nature if anything. Inspiring as they are different, FORBIDDEN SEED is captivating in their delivery of Heavy Power Metal.