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March 2023

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Stargazery: Constellation

Melodic Metal Rock

4.0/5.0

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Pure Steel
Words: Craig Hartranft
Added: 27.05.2020 | Released: 29.05.2020

It's been almost a year since the announcement that a new Stargazery album, Constellation, was in the works. In celebration of the upcoming release, in June 2019, Pure Steel Records re-issued the band's debut album, Eye In The Sky, on vinyl. But why did it take so long for Constellation to arrive? Perhaps the most basic reason is the shifts in band personnel since 2015's Star Aligned. Constellation arrives with new players Ilkka Leskela on drums, Marko Pukkila on bass, and Pasi Hiltula on keyboards.

Stargazery

What has not changed is Stargazery's melodic metal style, which features a heavy reliance on keyboards. With some variation here and there, the Stargazery song formula is pretty simple: start with sharp riffs and bright synths, drop in some rhythm and groove, keep the riffs and synths flowing, and then offer a duet of dueling synth and guitar solos. All these things are wrapped up in fine song melody and harmony, and catchy refrains. This methodology is self-evident within Sinners In Shadows, Dark Side Of The Moon, War Torn, or Self-Proclaimed King. There are exceptions to every rule. The ballad I Found Angels revolves around voice, acoustic guitar, and drums before synth orchestration arrives. Alternatively, within Caught In The Crossfire, the synths and riffs do battle at the start. The former leads over the latter to begin, but the riffs quickly roar and the synths become accent. But the synths get their revenge with a large solo about three-quarters in and a stronger final finish.

Essentially, there's much to be said for constant consistency. For Stargazery and Constellation that simply means delivering their trademark, strongly synth enhanced, melodic metal rock. If you liked previous albums, you will dig this one. Recommended.

There's much to be said for constant consistency. For Stargazery and Constellation that simply means delivering their trademark, strongly synth enhanced, melodic metal rock. If you liked previous albums, you will dig this one. Recommended.

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Formed 23 years ago, Finland's Excalion has had a turbulent musical career. Before releasing a trio of albums between 2005 and 2010, they had personnel changes. Currently, only the drummer and keyboard ... [ Read More ]