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Apocalypse is the third album for this Spanish power metal band, and it is clear they've listened to the masters and incorporated those lessons into their sound. They play music on the crunchy side with plenty of speed, dexterous solos and vocals that range from gruff mid-range to the occasional high-pitched scream, all done well. The sound of the album is great, and the songs are in your face in a way that makes you shake your head and reach for the air guitar and air drumsticks. There are all kinds of nods to bands like Gamma Ray, Iron Fire and Edguy, so Apocalypse is plenty entertaining but Nightfear's songwriting is a notch or two below those bands and none of the songs possess that one killer hook or chorus that sticks in your head like it was coated with super glue. Nevertheless, if you enjoy European power metal with a healthy does of crunch, Apocalypse should scratch that itch.