Rhapsody

Rhapsody of Fire is an Italian symphonic metal band from Trieste. The group defines itself as the founder of "Hollywood metal". Initially named Thundercross, then Rhapsody, the band changed its name in 2006 to Rhapsody of Fire. Their music is characterized by an "epic" instrumentation privileging musical flights of fancy with sometimes warlike, sometimes softer accents. The lyrics of the first five albums tell a single story, an approach that goes even further than the concept album. Some will appreciate the saga and follow the band for its beautiful melodies; others will criticize the band for going too far in the "epic" genre, and losing its creativity by staying in one style.

On the first three albums, most of the tracks have a melodic metal structure, reminding of Helloween or Yngwie Malmsteen for the neoclassical aspect of the guitar and some arrangements, enhanced with symphonic parts. They include long instrumental parts. The whole is energetic, joyful and catchy. The style of the group marks then a reversal with the EP Rain of a thousand Flames whose sound is darker. They are gradually approaching the sound of a film score, the current culmination being Symphony of Enchanted Lands II - The Dark Secret, where with the means at their disposal and the narrative voice of Christopher Lee, they obtain an inspired and diversified album.