One of the most common characterizations that we bump into upon reading a review is: “the band has returned”. This is a way of adding a positive mark on an album after a previous recording mishap. Battle Beast and “Circus of Doom” is now an exemplar case as this is truly a majestic album; a triumphant return to the band’s trademark sound after the “hit an’ miss” “No More Hollywood Endings”. The Finnish outfit clearly embraces its past and “Circus of Doom”, at least from my perspective” is an ideal mix between “Unholy Savior” and “Bringer of Pain”.
The three singles of the album perfectly depicted what Battle Beast wanted to achieve this time around which is melodic, power metal with catchy melodies and a pompous production that enhances the well-crafted compositions. After all, it’s not coincidental that “Master of Illusion”, “Eye of the storm” and “Where Angels Fear To Fly” spread joy to all the fans of the band with Noora Louhimo proving once again that she is one of the best (if not THE best) female singers out there! As for the rest of the members…well, let’s just say that their performance is absolutely flawless and bombastic. All in all, a brilliant return (see…the “return” word again…).
Battle Beast has released one of the best albums of their entire career that stands up to the finest moments of their back catalogue. Trust us when we are saying: this is Battle Beast embracing their trademark sound…this is Battle Beast at their very best!
Highlight: Personal favorite cut: “Armageddon”.
