Maximum Metal Rating Legend

THY MAJESTIE - "Jeanne D' Arc" - 2005 - Scarlet Records

Track Listing1.Revelations 2.Maiden Of Steel 3.The Chosen 4.Ride To Chinon 5. ...For Orleans 6.Up To The Battle 7.March Of The Brave 8.The Rise Of A King 9.Siege Of Paris 10.Time To Die 11.Inquisition 12.The Trial

One of the great characters history has honored us with was Joan Of Arc (sorry Keanu, she wasn't Noah's wife). Most are aware of this young maiden who had a divine revelation, and then at a very young age, went on to be a vigilant military leader in France as they fought Britain. Enter Italy's power metal brigade THY MAJESTIE. In much the same vein as fellow countrymen RHAPSODY OF FIRE, and others such as ANGRA, we are treated to some great audio theater. This is one of the great concept albums in recent years.

The first non-instrumental track "Maiden Of Steel" gets the blood pumping and the imagination soaring. Giulio Di Gregorio's vocals are exactly what I am looking for in power metal. His falsettos never break, and his mids are perfect. The guitar tandem of Maurizio Malta and Giovanni Santini grace us with excellent solo trade offs (think Hansen/Weikath in the "Keeper..."-era). Guiseppe Bondi's keyboards add a great atmosphere for conveying the range of emotions on this album from triumph to melancholy.

While no doubt comparable to RHAPSODY OF FIRE, THY MAJESTIE isn't nearly as over-the-top. In fact, to my ears, they are more pleasing. There are as many passionate moments (think Kamelot) as there are moments of pompous virtuosity. "Jeanne D' Arc" was recorded slightly less clean than all of the aforementioned bands, as to retain a more metal bite.

This great French maiden warrior was eventually burned at the stake as a witch. However, she cemented a legacy, and was one of the most 'metal' figures in history. Those of you who are unfamiliar would be wise to do your homework. Her's is a story that should never die. Certainly THY MAJESTIE did Joan Of Arc justice with this album.


--Death Metal Shawn 12.25.06