What an excellent piece of work! Hell yeah, these Germans know how to play power metal. Soul Temptation sounds like an album made by an American power metal band; absolutely nothing hints at the band`s German origin. The music reminds us of bands like Savatage and Nevermore, while still retaining its own specific sound: it is 100% power all the way! Brainstorm’s main strength is their ability to write very strong songs that possess a phenomenal balance between melody and power. The band concentrates on good song structuring and refrains from over-technicality, which is a very good thing. While the guitars fly and pound, Andy B. Franck’s vocals weave a pattern of melodic beauty. Yeah, this man did an excellent job on Symphorce`s latest album, “phorcefulAhead”, but what he does on this CD is simply better. His vocals are powerful, melodic and varied and although he might not have the same reach as compatriot Warrel Dane from Nevermore, he nevertheless has a superb voice that outshines most of his fellow singers. One can only conclude it is a very good thing that he is part of both bands.

As I stated before, Soul Temptation excels because of its songs. After one single spin of this disc you are just aching for more. The heart and soul of this album is the so-called Trinity Of Lust, which consists of “Shiva’s Tears”, “Fornever” and the title track “Soul Temptation”.

These three songs contain some oriental influences and their atmosphere slightly reminds us of Iced Earth’s Something Wicked trilogy. The keyboards on this album deserve a special mention; although they don`t play a very big role, they do play a very important role as they set the atmosphere of many of the songs; they especially affect the aforementioned Trinity Of Lust. Listen to the beginning of “Fornever” for instance and you’ll know exactly what I mean.

The absolute highlight of this album is the title track. This song just sums up the whole album; its doom-like pounding riffs and its melodic interludes sometimes take us back to Savatage during their Handful Of Rain period; it’s just spine chilling and one should simply experience the brilliant atmosphere of this track. I can only conclude that Brainstorm has delivered one of the best power metal albums I’ve heard in the past few years. It’s simply right to the mark and possesses all the elements required to become very successful. Sure, it doesn’t necessarily comply with the norm set in the European scene, but that’s exactly what makes this disc shine. Open your mind and let Brainstorm brainwash you!