Royal Hunt

"The Watchers"
(Century Media) 

They don't waste any time, hitting you right off with a fourteen minute foray that sets the tone for a contemplative and seriously written venture into outer world transcendence that continues down the sci-fi Martian Chronicle trail left off from their last studio release "The Mission." Royal Hunt's garnered impressive credentials throughout their lengthy and oft evolving career thus "The Watchers," a purposeful recreation of their past and vision of the future arrives at the right time for a band that may finally be coming into their own and receive their just due. Manning the helm, mainstay Andre Andersen, Keyboard phenomenon and the imaginative force behind this and other varied projects, along with Steen Morgensen, have done well to lead Royal Hunt down their flighty path ten years running as one of Progressive Metal's elite. Following the opening "Intervention" epic, come four live versions from a summer 2000 tour capturing a surprising and suspenseful burst of energy otherwise previously known mainly to their European followers. The rest of "The Watchers" features re-recorded versions highlighted by "Clown In The Mirror" and "Legion Of The Damned" capturing the essence of their past, again a rare commodity to modern day followers and proof positive of the band's steadily climbing growth and progress culminating in their modern day make up. An edited version of the mighty "Intervention" closes this latest chapter in the impressive history of Royal Hunt, showcased as "The Watchers," a majestic and mercurial motif in their classically inspired glide through the heavens.

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