By Vinnie Apicella

Well if the music proves too challenging for you, there's a well-written book that goes along with it here that offers more than a little background! Wow, only three songs in and I'm already emotionally spent! Rhapsody's "Legendary Tales" is as you might expect, based upon medieval/fantasy surroundings that draw upon themes consistent with glory and conquest, myths, magic and legend… in all, ten tall tales that weave in and out of your subconscious whisking you off to a world of fantasy where battle-dragons and brave swordsmen duel to the death amidst a backdrop of darkening skies lit only by an intermittent flash of lightning. The Italian natives have been plotting their journey for a few years now and have really developed a special way of presenting traditional metal bred with classical inspiration, storybook lyrics surrounded by majestic mystique. The brainchild of guitarist Luca Turilli, Rhapsody combines the speed and power of the mighty Manowar, the technical proficiency of Blind Guardian, and the elegant charm of Skyclad, all assembled in a thunderous rendition of superior musicianship and imaginative intellect. Now featuring former Labyrinth vocalist Fabio Leone, AKA Joe Terry, of course-where he came up with that one is anybody's guess… but brilliant nonetheless! Leone's singing is par excellence ranging far and above the accepted octave scale that brings already emblazoned images of the "Warrior of Ice," and "Lord of the Thunder" into full view! Rhapsody is as advanced in their approach to music as they are talented and these "Legendary Tales" reach such epic proportions that only one listen through cannot do justice for listener. Simplicity is about all they don't cover during this valiant journey and if tragedy and loss and death vocals are what move you, prepare to be very uncomfortable! The tale's been told, a thousand fold… but never quite like this.

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