I do have to say, Turkish Melodic Metal is not a genre that I come across very often. But, I do have to admit, if Saviour of the Damned are to be used as a benchmark, I do hope to hear a lot more bands like them. "Rise Of The Alchemist" is an album that has a lot going for it at first glance. This actually shouldn't surprise us as listeners, as the band has been around since 2004. You can expect that after eighteen years they should know what they are doing and what works for them.

And they certainly doe, as "Rise Of The Alchemist" has that air of a band that is brimming with confidence and believes in the music they have written and recorded. That gives them a whole bunch of credibility, but also makes that the way you listen to the songs is prejudiced. They have already scored an extra point, as they leave no room for you to doubt their abilities.

SAINTS N' SINNERS is Melodic, but also has a great deal of Power Metal in them, sometimes even Symphonic. And even though they give it all they have got, it just doesn't warm me in my soul. It just doesn't reach the heights that I was hoping for when I started listening.  Only when they make their riffs and the feel of the song extra heavy is when my interest is peaked properly. That is also when they forego the very sweet harmonies that they feel they need to use on most of the album. Songs like "Sacred Ground" are the reason that I had to keep on listening to SAINTS N' SINNERS. The harmonies are rougher, the sound is heavier, the song cuts right where it needs to. "Rise Of The Alchemist" would have scored two extra points with a few more of those songs. The only song that comes close is "Catch 22", the last song on the album. Too late, really.

I must admit that "Saviour of the Damned" has the speed and intensity, but just not the heaviness. It is too much like an immature RHAPSODY tune. I'm sorry if that offends anyone, but it is my opinion, and those are always subjective. If you, on the other hand, do like your Melodic Power Metal to be as sweet as sugar canes, then please, check out "Rise Of The Alchemist". I feel you might have found your grail. I just can't decide for you if it is the Holy one. Only you can do that.