Seventh Avenue - Southgate (1998)
Since the inception of Thunderline I have had numerous letters from people asking if there are any bands similar in style to the secular band Blind Guardian. Well, so far Seventh Avenue is about as close as it gets. European style metal featuring neo-classical guitars, tight rhythms and immaculate production is what you have here. Seventh Avenue from Germany have released their third (and best) cd in "Southgate". From it's epic 9 minute title track to the final notes of the cd closer "Goodbye" you will be locked in to a world that is emotional and powerful with songs that tell stories of life as a Christian coupled with pieces of romantic fantasy style tracks. The music, as stated, is true European power metal along the lines of bands like Blind Guardian, Kamelot, Iron Maiden, etc. The vocals are high, clear and prisitine, very similar to the guy from Helloween. This is a great disc and the bands previous efforts (while not quite as grand) are very worthy also. -- Review by Norm