MASTERCASTLE is a band hailing from Italy and "Dangerous Diamonds" is their third album. I have to admit that I have never heard of them and their name sounded to me a bit "cheesy", but nobody can judge an album without listening to it first. "Dangerous Diamonds" is a Power Metal record that combines a lot of technical guitar playing and great female vocals.

The songs vary from slow tempo to high paced (though not reaching insane speeds). "Another Flower", "Dangerous Diamonds" and "Sixth Sun" are the fastest tracks and most dominant representatives of the Power Metal style of the band. The rest of the songs are leaning towards Heavy Metal with more grounded speed, but are equally enjoyable. "Alone", "Au Premiere de Coup" and "Bitter & Sweet" are those that I consider most pleasing. Finally there is a very nice ballad named "Lovin' Me" and an instrumental song "Blue Diamond" which is sympathetic but sometimes I felt that I need to skip to the next track, as Giorgia Gonella's voice is what makes this record so great. The duration of the record in total is approximately 46 minutes.

The record has a modern production with all the instruments having proper levels and dynamics. The guitar work of virtuoso Pier Gonella is remarkable as he manages to display his great skill in guitar playing without being annoying or boring at any time. Giorgia Gueglio has a lovely voice that fits perfectly with the songs and her performance is making the songs even more enjoyable. Steve Vawamas bass playing style is complementing Alessandro Bissa's drum playing providing solid infrastructure to each song. In general the band's performance is a great plus to the whole record.

However, I didn't like the cover too much, as I expected something more creative. As with most records nowadays one can't really expect to find something really innovational. However, the band worked hard and the compositions are greatly developed, the lyrics are fine and the feeling that eventually this record leaves to the listener is that of a sincere effort of a band that has something to say. I would definitely suggest this record to those who love Power Metal with female vocals and personally it is one of the best of the kind I have heard recently.