It’s been 11 plus years since Stratovarius released both parts of “Elements.” They have combined both discs and added a bonus disc with B-sides and live versions. In addition, there is a DVD with the entire 18 songs from “Elements” mixed in 5.1 along with demos of many tracks as well. The package has many old photos contributed by the band and liner notes by keyboardist Jens Johansson. It’s a dream collection for the die hard fan of the band. They did an incredible job on it!
I always felt the albums should have been released together rather than apart since they were written and recorded at the same time.
The first disc has the “single” and lead video track “Eagleheart,” the slow and powerful “Soul of a Vagabond,” along with 12 minute epic title track. The second disc was not quite as great as disc one but it has one of their poppier tracks in “I Walk to My Own Song.” The “Elements” project was very symphonic and as bombastic as anything the band recorded to that point.
The problem
is "Elements" was basically the straw that broke the camel’s back. The band imploded in 2004 and eventually regrouped for their much-maligned self-titled album. This reissue really shows the band at the peak of their powers. At least, for the “classic” Stratovarius lineup.
This is a limited edition run of 10,000 copies worldwide.
It is a beautiful package with everything you could ask for from these sessions. It is highly recommended for fans of classic progressive power metal and anyone who remembers when Timo Tolkki wrote great songs.
