Rhapsody of Fire – Challenge the Wind (2024)

I will not drag out with long intros, not only are Rhapsody very well known, but we have covered everything in our discography ranking. Let me start by telling how I approached this album. If I viewed it as the 15th Full Length of Rhapsody, then this would not go well. Instead I prefer a headcanon where Challenge the Wind is just the third album of the Voli period. 

Without further delays, the album left me with a positive impression! There are some things that go in the right direction, some others I would like to see improved, but we undoubtedly have the best release of the -till now- trilogy. 

What contributes to this, is that during songwriting the band found themselves creating faster and heavier songs, to the point that even the obligatory ballad was left out. I can’t tell you how happy I am with that approach, because let’s be real, Fabio’s playground were theatrical and lyrical performances, while Giacomo has more of a Rock voice excelling in higher octaves. Each with their strengths and Rhapsody capitalized theirs better this time.   

There are some songs that do not differ from the recent albums in style, but as you progress through the record you will find that things get more interesting as you go. It is definitely not frontloaded and my favorite moments ended up being in the second half. Black Wizard and Holy Downfall even reminded me of the past a little and more specifically, Power of the Dragonflame.

I like how some initiatives were taken that go against the current, like placing a 16 minute song in number 4! My complaint is that this was spoiled from the fact that the closing Mastered by the Dark, is not a reprise, but an exact copy of the second part of this composition. Not big of a deal in the end, as I finish the album at song number 9 instead of 10. 

Regarding the members’ performance, what stood out was of course vocalist Giacomo Voli and his to the point singing approach, while Roberto de Micheli nailed his solos just as Turilli did (comparisons between them stop there). 

Concerning this new faster version of the band, I just wish that Rhapsody will continue on the same path as this album for future releases, it really suits them. What I would like to see as an improvement, is a more tight production that will favor this heavier direction. Similarly to Eighth Mountain and Glory to Salvation, their sound comes closer to that of Twilight Force, meaning weak rhythm guitars that lack gravitas (some exceptions apply). A lot of people love that however, so I guess it is a matter of preference.

Eighth Mountain had the greater songs, Glory to Salvation was the most balanced result with a better flow, Challenge the Wind is both. I didn’t believe I would like it as much, but I am very glad to stand corrected. I guess I must congratulate Alex Staropoli for not only guiding the band through this era, but also for the improvements between each record.  

PS: The logo, without the of Fire, that decorates Challenge the Wind, also adorns albums like Symphony of Enchanted Lands pt.2, Power of the Dragonflame etc. so forgive me but I can’t go higher on the score 

70/100

Pavlos Pavlakis

On behalf of Metal Domain