Symphonic Power Metal has been having a major surge over the last few years. Something about the whimsical flair of the genre appeals to people, myself included. The English band GRIMGOTTS describes themselves as "probably the best Harry Potter-themed Symphonic Power Metal band to come out of West Sussex. Probably." From that description alone, I knew I was in for a bout of fun. "Sagas" is the second of three EPs the band has and is going to release in 2020, and even though I hadn't heard the first one, this one stands on its own with songs of pirates being pirates.

 

"Northern Passage" has some really rad orchestration. You can imagine taking on the seven seas and the music creates the rush of new adventure awaiting as the song goes along. "Rise Again" is rather triumphant; the keys really give this song a 'rising from the ashes' feel. The epic melodies and fast, flighty riffs evoke the RHAPSODY influence they mention on their social media page. "Plunder, Loot & Chantey" is pure FUN. This is exactly what you expect from a pirate song; there's just the right amount of silly balanced with some well done instrumentation that it's enjoyable. The solo portion was great too, it's just Epic Power Metal in all its glory. You just want to drink a bottle of rum and steal some booty, preferably of the shiny gold variety, to this track! "Sagas" honestly felt like a TWILIGHT FORCE bonus track. The influence was almost too apparent in this one... Good thing I really like that band because wow, it was their exact style with the massive orchestration and frantic soaring vocals.

 

Overall, this EP was a perfect length for those who don't have a lot of time for some high fantasy exploration in these chaotic times. The orchestration/keywork from Fabio was certainly the highlight; it's big, bold, and majestic like a sea serpent slithering through the ocean waves. The vocals reminded me so much of Alessandro Conti (TWILIGHT FORCE, TRICK OR TREAT) it's wild to say the least. Certainly a great singer to be compared to because what a massive vocal range that takes, plus channeling the emotion without coming across as cheesy is a gift in itself. Andy managed to balance it wonderfully. I think what I like most about this EP was that you can tell it was intended to be a little taste of adventure and some fun to break through all the serious stuff many bands have been creating during this pandemic. Sometimes, all you need is something to make you smile and something playful paired with Metal. "Sagas" certainly fits the checklist for that.