Paper Blood

Denmark-bred Royal Hunt -- known since 1991 for its fusion of heavy metal and classical -- uphold their reputation as leaders of modern prog on Paper Blood. Not unlike Queensrÿche or the 1980s-era version of Deep Purple, the band's sound is visualized by founding keyboardist Andre Andersen and fronted by able vocalist John West as the expressive "Break Your Chains" and the positive thump of "Never Give Up" attest. Bookended by complex instrumentals, this is theatrical metal. Fans of this ilk -- from Saga to Whitesnake -- will relish in Paper Blood. Royal Hunt may not be very stylish, but they serve their disciples well. ~ John D. Luerssen