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Just as the Finnish Power Metal scene was at its peak of creative energy, sword-bearing youngsters Celesty broke out with their storming debut record, the uncompromising Reign of Elements, and despite missing their chance alongside better contenders like Sonata Arctica and Twilightning, their shot at the crown will be well remembered, and go down in history as one of the lost gems that the genre spawned.

Anyone uninterested in the standard formula had better skip to the next review because Celesty are one hell of a generic band. But when done right, this can be no bad thing, and in fact their efforts are in part so impressive due to their lack of originality, proving that bands like themselves can actually ape the sound of the genre's major players and widen the scope of their capabilities. While many may consider Reign of Elements a total rip, it is in fact a very enjoyable set of Power Metal romps in the Stratovarius, Freedom Call, and Rhapsody mold that just coruscates with youthful exuberance, showing that innovation isn't always the best course of action to follow. From the blistering opener "The Charge" right down to the melancholic closer "Kingdom", Reign of Elements covers all aspects of the genre from double-bass led assaults to charming mid-paced diamonds without sacrificing melody or musical proficiency. The lyrical materials rely heavily on its conceptual nature (more magic swords and ancient books for all those fifteen year old D&D die-hards to beat themselves off to) but there isn't a single song that doesn't appeal or stick around too long; in fact every track is catchier than an STD, and considering none of the melodies are their own, that's to be expected.

Unlike their later work, Reign of Elements shows no attempt at anything remotely inventive, and if triumphant fantasy-laced Melodic Power Metal is your thing, you can't go far wrong picking up a copy. Plus, if you thought Stratovarius had defined the customarily crystal-clear Finnvox production, just wait until you hear this...