“Fall From Grace” is the second album from Canadian Power Metallers Borealis, and their debut album for Lion Music. Having heard Borealis’ debut album World of Silence, and also seeing them live at last year’s ProgPower USA Kick off show opening for Accept, I was somewhat familiar with the band. But after hearing “Fall From Grace’, I can honestly say that this is a band that has stepped up their game in a HUGE way.

     If you are a fan of bands like Evergrey, Kamelot, Nocturnal Rites, and Mercenary, you will love “Fall From Grace”. The album starts off with the thrashy riff and thunderous double bass drums of “Finest Hour”. Lead guitarist/vocalist Matt Marinelli’s vocals have improved drastically from the first album. What impresses me most about the album is the drumwork of Sean Dowell. His double bass patterns are executed to perfection and really drive each song with a heavy groove and stop on a dime time changes. Just listen to the title track and “Regeneration” to experience Dowell’s expert footwork. Sean Werlick’s keyboards add another dimension to the album without softening Borealis’ signature style.

     Any fan of melodic heavy metal will eat this up with a spoon and come back for seconds, and thirds!! Highly recommended!!

Rating: 8.0