In winter 2000, Merlin was formed, but after some changes in the line-up the band decided to change its name to Elwing. They released their debut album "Immortal Stories" already in 2001, and not until now has the band got around releasing their second album "War". Despite of the young age of this band, Elwing has written fairly mature power album (it' a lot more mature than an average power metal band is capable of). The songwriting for this album actually took two years to finish, but I'm glad to hear that it wasn't in vain - all the songs are rather good.

This album is quite a joy to listen, since the music is a bit more varying than the average power metal band plays. To my delight, I notice confluences of various well-known artists in the power metal scene. For example, one can hear traces of Manowar, Brainstorm, early Running Wild and even Virgin Steele among others. Basically this album should appeal to the majority of epic power metal listeners. There are lots of groovy riffs and melodic guitar solos scattered throughout the album... in addition, the strong voice of Sakis Koutsikas serves as the icing on the cake.

Regarding the production of this album, I have some complaints. For example, background distortion occurred every so often. Also the sounds could have been mixed somewhat better... nonetheless, they are quite assertive and powerful (which is desirable in releases of this genre).

Overall, Elwing's War is rather good power metal album that should appeal to the majority of power metal listeners. I recommend you to check out this band, since there are a lot of bands in the power metal scene that turn pale in comparison with Elwing. Nevertheless, there's always room for improvement.

Release date: June 20th, 2005

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- MAGE (June 12th, 2005)

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LINE-UP:
Koutsikas, Sakis: Vocals, Rhythm Guitar Roumeliotis, Panayiotis: Lead Guitar Mantirakis, Alexis: Drums Karapapazoglou, Tasos: Bass
Producer:	Unavailable
Mixing by:	Unavailable
Mastering by:	Unavailable

	TRACKLIST:
	01. Marching to Glory 02. At the Gates 03. I'll Live Forever 04. Stormlord 05. Sons of Revenge 06. War (Instrumental) 07. Blood on My Hands 08. Fly Away 09. Armageddon 10. Lost Humanity Length: 45:33