There comes a point in the timeline of a band where it has to prove whether it's got what it takes to make the breakthrough into the major league or if it'll stick in a semi-famous condition. Mystic Prophecy has already released three albums. Despite what the press said about them, I never found them in any way extraordinary enough to attract my attention. They always included well played classic Power Metal, definitely U.S. oriented, but they lacked of something extra to push them over the top.
Last year was a hard one for the band of vocalist R.D. Liapakis. Lots of people left the band. First came the departure of guitar virtuoso Gus G. (Firewind, ex-Dream Evil), then followed by drummer Dennis Ekdahl. They where replaced by two guitar players (a wise choice I believe) Markus Pohl (Symphorce) and Martin Grimm (Headstone Epitaph - do you remember those lads?). Though this dynamic duo is not as flashy as Mr. G., they manage to nail down some ultra furious guitar playing. The new drummer was found in the face of Matthias Straub (Sacred Steel).
So, why do I think that Savage Souls is the best up to date album of this act? Pulverizing bass sound and annihilating mid-ranging guitars. Damn, these guys sound heavier than many Death Metal bands (have you noticed that a lot of new Death Metal bands sound like they're having a Power Metal production?)! Then we have the compositions. I'll admit that Liapakis has done a fantastic work this time combining European and (mostly) U.S. sound / techniques than he has ever done in the past. From the ultra furious Shadows Beyond My Soul, up to In The Darkness, the way this band combines aggression with melody is stunning. All these elements are really nicely balanced, making the listening of the album a very interesting experience. Once again I'd like to raise thumbs for the excellent work on the guitar department - it's so nice to hear the six-string goddess worshiped as much as she deserves to!
In conclusion, I think it was about time for Mr. Liapakis to offer us such a good album (last time I enjoyed him so much was with Valley's Eve - a really long time ago as you can imagine). Fans of Heavy fuckin' Metal will fall in love with this one.