Review by illusionist for Blind Guardian - Nightfall in Middle-Earth (1998)

Ah, Nightfall in Middle-Earth. The album that was my very first taste of my favorite band.

Hansi Kursch is at the peak of his vocal powers and delivers countless amazing melodies that would make God himself weep. There are guitar solos and harmonies that can only be described as pure gold in your ears. The compositions are constantly creative, each song bringing something new to the table and surprising you in a different way. This album is all at once triumphant and tender, sorrowful and energetic, grandiose and atmospheric, majestic and jubilant... So many emotions and feelings all wrapped up into a well-narrated storyline expanding upon Tolkien's The Silmarillion. It's... it's... just so beautiful! *Sighs*

Some selected highlights:

• "Into the Storm" is a rip-roaring opener with a remarkable solo
• "Nightfall" is the concert favorite with its subdued, mournful verses that explode into the big sing-along chorus
• "The Curse of Feanor" has the best of both worlds: speedy kickass riffs and drums right alongside some of Hansi's most heart-wrenching vocals.
• "Blood Tears" is a slower song, with a somber atmosphere and dramatic flair that come together perfectly.
• "Mirror Mirror" is quite possibly the song that best exemplifies Blind Guardian. It's the complete package. Amazing riffs, amazing melodies, amazing solo, amazing lyrics. It's simply an epic composition.
• "Noldor (Dead Winter Reigns)" is THE perennially underrated Blind Guardian song and the one that perhaps best captures the spirit of Tolkien with its beautiful lyrics and powerful atmosphere of tragedy.
• "The Eldar" is a short piano ballad a la "Black Chamber" that really showcases Hansi's vocal talents. His powerfully-delivered high-octave lines at the end send shivers down the spine.

...And many more.  I could go on and on describing why each song is so awesome, but I'm realizing that I cannot adequately capture with words the transcendence of the music on hand here. If you have any interest in power/progressive/speed metal, rock opera, OR fantasy... you need to experience Nightfall In Middle-Earth for yourself. If you enjoy all of these things.... oh-hoho, prepare to be spellbound!