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Quantum X is the second full-length album from Sweden's Celestial Decay and it's a load, with 15 tracks of Symphonic/Power Metal clocking in at a whopping 1 hour and 24 minutes. Contained within those 84 minutes of music are elements that should be familiar to fans of this genre; high, clear singing (courtesy of Silent Call vocalist Andi Kravljaca), speedy drumming (from William Seidl) and the sweeping melodies of guitarists/main men Hobbe Houshmand and Freddy Olofsson. Guitars are the foundation of the melodies but keyboards abound, sometimes supporting, sometimes taking center stage. There are up-tempo numbers, like "Blinded" and "Life & Death," anthems like "Enlightened," ballads ("The Power of Will") and even a 12-minute epic, "Final Symphony," all with the occasional folk element (think strings and plucked violins) peppered throughout. Throw in the obligatory spoken-word/instrumental intro, "Aftermath," and you've got it all. Grandiose lyrics about the destruction of the Earth put the cherry on top of this Power Metal ice cream sundae.

Everything on Quantum X sounds great, which is good as the discerning Power Metal fan expects no less, but it definitely lacks any huge hook or chorus that would give you something to look forward to when you listen. There are plenty of foot-tapping moments but they are buried within the ponderous length of the album. I often found myself thinking "isn't this over yet?" and that's not a good sign. And I take back what I said about nothing to look forward to. There is an ill-advised cover of Bonnie Tyler's "Total Eclipse of the Heart" at track 13. I'm not quite sure how this song fits with the overall theme of the album but it sucked back in the 80s as a pop song and it sucks now even after getting the Power Metal treatment. I looked forward to skipping it every time I listened to Quantum X.

Technically sound and well-played, Quantum X is far too long with too few good ideas stretched over almost an hour and a half. Fans of Rhapsody/Rhapsody of Fire are going to want to check this one out but they will need to clear their calendars. They are in for a loooong ride.