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Follow the Cipher's self-titled debut touches quite a few different symphonic/power metal styles and frankly does them all well. This is a new band (formed in 2014) out of Sweden but you might think they've been around for half a dozen albums based on how tight the performances are.

Singer Linda Toni Grahn isn't operatic but possesses a powerful voice that soars over the huge melodies on cuts like "Titan's Call" and "Valkyria". There is a strong keyboard presence on the album, but they don't get in the way when it's time for a guitar solo, and those are sharp and precise. Choirs and echo are liberally employed to give Follow the Cipher a massive sound and you just can't help but sing along. Musically, you've got some gothic influences ("A Mind's Escape"), progressive hints ("Enter the Cipher"), straight power metal ("Starlight") and it all flows seamlessly from one song to the next. It is hard not to get caught up in the swirling major-chord melodies, the mark of a good power metal album.

I love all things power/symphonic and I hear hints of Delain, Sonata Arctica, Symphony X and Sabaton (Follow the Cipher include a cover of "Carolus Rex" at the end of the album) all twisted up in a novel way. If you love those bands, you will want to own this.