Kamelot: The Black Halo | Teen Ink

Kamelot: The Black Halo MAG

February 23, 2011
By Adam Soll BRONZE, Bexley, Ohio
Adam Soll BRONZE, Bexley, Ohio
1 article 0 photos 1 comment

When you think of heavy metal music, what comes to mind? Most people do not think of the symphonic power metal band Kamelot. For those unfamiliar with this genre, symphonic power metal is generally defined by fantastical and epic themes, the incorporation of violins or pianos, and virtuosic playing. Led by vocalist Roy Khan and guitarist Thomas Youngblood, Kamelot delivers what instantly became my favorite album of all time – “The Black Halo,” their seventh CD.

Each track gets better with every listen. The technical and melodic diversity is puzzling, yet enchanting. “March of Mephisto” sounds like a powerful march into the depths of hell. However, regardless of its pulsating drum and bass lines, this song never loses its ethereal beauty. Khan's crooning voice pairs seamlessly with the dark growls of Swedish guest vocalist Shagrath.

“Haunting” and “Soul ­Society” end the album's opening segment with a bang, and despite being separate tracks, they fit together like one epic tale. “Haunting” tells of a man longing for his lost love, while “Soul Society” describes the pain that the man feels once he realizes he will never have his love back. Finnish soprano ­Simone Simmons, famous for her work with Epica, harmonizes and converses with Khan, as they bring this story to life.

In an almost surreal fashion, “Soul Society” begins exactly where “Haunting” ends. This track shows strong ambition from the band by accompanying thrashing, heavy drums with a string section. Though odd sounding at first, this unique twist on metal left its mark on me as both a work of innovation and songwriting.

“Abandoned,” without a doubt, is the greatest track on the album. Led by piano, strings, and Khan's voice at its best, it will stick with you. It features some of the most brilliant lyrics and songwriting I have ever heard. Starting slowly and then building to an epic conclusion, this tour-de-force ballad demands replay.

At first, I was skeptical about the symphonic metal genre. It struck me as odd that a metal band would incorporate symphonic elements, but now I have trouble listening to any other music. Kamelot's “The Black Halo” opened me up to a new realm of music.


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This article has 6 comments.


on Oct. 19 2015 at 6:32 pm
Leleanneee SILVER, Escondido, California
5 articles 0 photos 2 comments

Favorite Quote:
"I've already been through hell, so give it your best shot. Not only will I survive, I will win."

Great Band. Another is Slayer, or Amon Amarth.

on Aug. 28 2014 at 7:46 pm
theheavymetalist ELITE, Winter Haven, Florida
247 articles 0 photos 57 comments

Favorite Quote:
Take me As I Am - James Labrie of Dream Theater

what are your thoughts on Ghost Opera. My review for that should be up soon but I would like to know what you think. You know make your own review. and while your at it, Silverhorn as well.

on Feb. 22 2012 at 8:55 pm
Adam Soll BRONZE, Bexley, Ohio
1 article 0 photos 1 comment
Oops, youre totally right. Don't tell anyone else!

KCayla GOLD said...
on Dec. 13 2011 at 10:33 am
KCayla GOLD, Stillwater, New York
12 articles 2 photos 48 comments

Favorite Quote:
"I brought a cupcake, and I brought Apollo" - My Best friend, implying that I was like Apollo :D

I've actually never heard of this band but i think i will look them up on youtube. Any song suggestions?

on Nov. 10 2011 at 1:45 am
winieandrea PLATINUM, Pekalongan, Other
23 articles 0 photos 3 comments
This is awesome :) I love symphonic metal, especially Kamelot and Epica. Just a little correction here, I think Simone Simons of Epica is Dutch, not Finnish, perhaps you mistook the band with Nightwish.

on May. 4 2011 at 1:15 pm
Lizzi_Wrath SILVER, Lucasville, Ohio
9 articles 0 photos 4 comments

Favorite Quote:
I am who i am...Your approval isn't needed.

I totally agree, I mean heavy metal has been stereo typed. I'm Goth and i like the occasional Slipknot or Korn but Kamelot holds a special place in my heart it gets me through the good and bad days... sometimes i just wanna mosh in my bedroom or mope for a while but like i said kamelot is a great band.