#14 - Top of 2018

Judicator - The Last Emperor (Independent)

Judicator ascend to 14 of the 2018 Top Albums with their fourth full-length release The Last Emperor. The US-based power metallers are reminiscent of Blind Guardian but succeed in adding their own twist by weaving an interesting quick-paced record that never lets the listener lose interest. Starting with the titular song "The Last Emperor" and its melodic guitar intro, the epic atmosphere is set as if told by warriors amidst a battle. "Take Up Your Cross" has a galloping drum bit (by Jordan Ecless) supporting it throughout the song blending perfectly with the sing-along chorus and strong clear vocals by John Yelland (giving off Hansi vibes)! The heaviness and volume are levelled up with "Raining Gold" which is also full of amazing guitar riffs (and an awesome mid-song guitar interlude blended with sword crossing sounds). "The Queen of All Cities" is one of the album highlights with more theatrical vocals, acoustic guitar interludes (that wonderfully connect different parts of the song) and great songwriting spanning over nine minutes of melodic epicness. And then during the song "Spiritual Treason", the perfect guest appearance is made by none other than Hansi Kürsch (of Blind Guardian) which is the ultimate counter-part for Yelland's vocals thus gracing us with an awesomely melodic power metal song with a chorus that will stick to your mind (like a classic Blind Guardian song)! "Antioch" is another personal favourite starting with an acoustic intro before blasting into galloping riffs and clear high pitched vocals. Wrapping up the record, "Nothing But Blood" is an instant classic power metal song with great electric guitar tunes while "It Falls to Jerusalem" has a more melodic vibe allowing for the focus on the storytelling by both amazing clear and group vocals! The power-metal epicness is flawlessly depicted by the cover artwork (Marc Whisnant) which wraps everything together for an excellent release!


95.1/100

Below is the official music video for the "King of Rome".