In this light, the lyrics of “ Fortress of Solitude” could be seen as Odysseus’ longing for Penelope and Ithaca, while the other two are Circe’s temptations (“ Let me show you my Paradise”) and warnings (“ I’m the hounds of Hell”). It feels like this trio of songs – “ Savior Machine,” “ Fortress of Solitude,” and “ Nemesis” – detail Odysseus’ encounter with Circe and his stay on her island, Aeaea. As per its title, “ Nemesis” is the antithesis of “ Savior Machine,” featuring a gloomy ambiance and a foreboding though very catchy chorus section, while the symphonic elements add some moments of fleeting beauty. The guitar work takes a lead role in “ Fortress of Solitude” as both the opening riff and the solo are superb while the drums and bass only emphasize Vasilis Georgiou’s dramatic delivery. First single release, “ Savior Machine,” features some symphonic elements that give the track a sense of elegance and grandeur, while the refrain is melodic and uplifting. Continuing on a mid-pace tempo, “ Maze” is a more straightforward power metal track with great melodies and grooves, and a dark ambiance that is offset by the energy of the chorus. There’s also a melodic bridge where Vasilis Georgiou can really let loose, and a blistering solo that adds melody and charm to the track. Pounding drums, beautiful backing keys, and intense guitar work detail this journey home and the listeners do feel like they are on an adventure. In Greek mythology, the island of Ithaca was the home of King Odysseus and the place he desperately tries to get back to after the Trojan War. The album seems to draw inspiration from the Greek poem, “ The Odyssey” (by Homer) and the title track, “ Ithaca,” is a direct reference to this. Adding a layer of symphonic beauty and a dose of darkness to their already solid foundation of catchy hooks, haunting melodies, technical guitar riffs and solos, and top-notch vocals, “ Ithaca” is everything one can expect from BLACK FATE and then some, as it shows maturity and growth from the band.įrom the opening notes of “ From Ashes & Dust,” the listeners get transported into an alternate, mythical world as whispers and sweeping strings set an ominous tone that is carried on throughout the twelve tracks. Fans of SUNBURST already know the great chemistry that exists between these two musicians and it seems to be even more apparent on this album.

Listening to the album, it feels like they are the main attractions, trading their time in the spotlight while the bass, drums, and keys act as support. I have to start this review by addressing two subjects – how gorgeous and rich Vasilis Georgiou’s voice sounds and how well Gus Drax’s handles the guitar duties.

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