Brazilian melodic power metal band SOULSPELL, brainchild of drummer Heleno Vale, has a knack for creating dramatic metal operas. And that sentiment continues on Act III, Hollow’s Gathering. As on its previous releases, Vale has once again assembled a wonderful cast of well- known vocalists as characters in the story. Tim “Ripper” Owens (ex-JUDAS PRIEST, ex-ICED EARTH), Blaze Bailey (ex-IRON MAIDEN), Michael Vescera (ex-LOUDNESS, OBSESSION), Amanda Sommerville (AVANTASIA), Markus Grosskopf (HELLOWEEN) and others are featured. Soulspell also sports some home-grown vocalists and other Brazilian-born area musicians. Similarities to DREAM THEATER and ARYEON are not off-base here, but there’s also hints of notable ’70s prog influences like URIAH HEEP, MAGNUM and YES, with Hammond organs and Mini Moogs being the obvious giveaway. The storyline is based on internal conflicts between the characters which affect the course of their present, future, and past life experiences. The music is varied and diversified, due to the many unique vocalists, both male and female, which give life to each character. Produced by Tito Falaschi (ANGRA, ALMAH), who gives it a huge, warm and crisp production with extra power. The songwriting is spectacular, the musicianship is top-notch, and the fantasy-based storyline and lyrics are ambitious. With 10 tracks just under an hour in length, you’re treated to some epic and dramatic music. Soulspell is giving metal opera bands such as AVANTASIA, AINA and ARYEON a run for their money.
