Stratovarius-Polaris

Armoury
2010

This disc originally came out last year, but now we get a two disc set. Disc one is the Polaris album just as it was released in 2009. I was immediately impressed by this album a year ago and it sounds just as strong a year later. It had been some time since they hit a solid release before this album, but this disc brought back the spirit of their prime and got them back on track. Most fans have probably gotten this album in it's original form, but the real is of course the Polaris Live disc. This disc is listed as having been recorded in various cities in various countries. So we get fourteen songs and if Polaris didn't prove that Stratovarius were back to form then the live disc should certainly convince everyone that there is still plenty left in the tank. The production and overall tone if nothing short of fantastic for their performances. There is no shortage of highlights and some of the best include but are not limited to Speed of light, Kiss of Judas and Father Time. Their songs are all severely tight and impressive. They work up a strong attack that pulls upon equal amounts of power and finesse. The performances not only remind me of this band's overall fine history, but the songs off of Stratovarius fit in just as well.Fans should already have Polaris, but the live disc makes the set much worth the purchase.