Tobias Sammet's Avantasia emerged in 2001 with The Metal Opera Part 1, followed swiftly by its sequel the next year. Even then, Sammet had a fully realized vision for the project: a theatrical, bombastic take on melodic metal, featuring an ever-evolving lineup of high-profile guests. With each subsequent album, that vision has been refined rather than reinvented. Here Be Dragons continues this trajectory, delivering accessible, hook-laden hard rock wrapped in a fantasy-metal aesthetic.
The album leans into its commercial appeal, boasting massive choruses and polished songwriting. Whether through soaring vocal lines or slick guitar riffs, every track offers something immediately memorable. Even when Avantasia taps into its speed metal roots—such as on "The Moorland at Twilight," featuring Michael Kiske, a defining voice of the genre—the emphasis remains on melody over sheer aggression. Elsewhere, the band's penchant for the theatrical manifests in hummable guitar solos and layered arrangements that maintain a grand, cinematic scope.
Yet, for all its metallic foundations, Here Be Dragons isn't afraid to embrace a more pop-leaning sensibility. "The Witch," featuring Tommy Karevik, is a prime example, its driving chorus and bright vocal melodies carrying a near-danceable quality. The same can be said for other tracks, where the fusion of heavy guitars and slick, anthemic structures makes for an irresistibly catchy listen. Avantasia may still revel in fantasy-laced bombast, but Sammet knows when to let a good hook take center stage.
Crucially, the album avoids the overly digital sound that plagues many modern productions. The mix is clear but not overstuffed, allowing each instrument and voice ample space. This balanced approach ensures that these songs—undoubtedly tailored for large-scale performances—will translate seamlessly to the stage. As always, Avantasia's rotating cast of guest vocalists fits like a glove, each singer bringing their signature style to their respective tracks.
Geoff Tate (ex-Queensrÿche) lends his unmistakable voice and still-impressive range to the title track, "Here Be Dragons," a song that shifts through dynamic peaks and valleys. Michael Kiske shines on "The Moorland at Twilight," a speed metal workout tailor-made for his high-flying vocals. Bob Catley (Magnum) contributes warmth and theatrical flair to the bouncy "Bring on the Night," his voice retaining a surprising strength despite his years. Kenny Leckremo (H.E.A.T) injects a more rock n' roll energy into "Against the Wind," while Roy Khan (Conception, ex-Kamelot) delivers haunting elegance on "Everybody's Here Until the End." Ronnie Atkins (Pretty Maids) brings grit and conviction to "Phantasmagoria," while Adrienne Cowan (Seven Spires) adds color and a soaring vocal performance to the Celtic Metal of "Avalon."
Through it all, Here Be Dragons maintains Avantasia’s signature uplifting energy. Even when moments of darkness creep in, like in some segments of "Unleash The Kraken," they never linger for long. This is empowering, grandiose metal designed to uplift rather than dwell in despair. While it falls just short of reaching the heights of Lost in Space 1 & 2, it remains another strong entry in Sammet’s ever-expanding saga. A refinement rather than a revelation—but a damn enjoyable one nonetheless.
