Stratovarius - Nemesis (2013)

On my first listen, I'm convinced that this is Stratovarius' best release since Infinite. The band seem to have eschewed all the elements that kept them in mediocrity and come up with a solid, worthwhile slice of fun power metal. The track "Unbreakable" is easily the catchiest number they've written in years while "Halcyon Days" sees the band at their most diverse and unpredictable. But of course, seeing as they are one of the foremost power metal bands in the world, the album as a whole is pretty predictable and the band do not stray very far from their roots. It's quite impressive to see that such a seasoned band still possesses the same creative drive which inspired them to start making music all the way back in 1989. I highly recommend Nemesis. It's sure to be one of the best power metal albums of the year.
9/10