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Album Details
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· Produced By: Ahti Kortelainen
· Running Time: 46.37
· Release Date: May 24
· Released:
· Genre: Melodic Metal
· LabelLink: AOR Heaven
· LabelLink: Altaria
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Artist Bio
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Once in a while it happens that a new band approaches to the scene and immediately takes the hearts by the melodic metal world by storm. ALTARIA with their 2003 debut album “Invitation” can be regarded as such.
Founded by ex-BLINDSIDE members Tony Smedjebacka (bass) and Marko Pukkila (drums) in the year of 2000 and after recording a couple of demos together with guitarist Jani Liimatainen (SONATA ARCTICA) and various vocalists, both media and fans saw themselves forced to give this band a massive push! After the very well received release of “Invitation”, ALTARIA, undoubtfully being a newcomer to the scene, had almost made it into the Finnish charts, had straightly become the most selling band on their label and had gone on the road twice in their home country of Finland where they immediately managed to establish themselves as one of the finest live acts of today.
The “Invitation Pt.1” tour in September 2003 was the first that featured singer Taage Laiho (KILPI) in the line-up who now permanently has replaced Jouni Nikula (REQUIEM) on the mic. Being a live band and not a studio project only, this move opened the door for a 2nd tour in January 2004 while the recordings of “Divinity” took place. The massive stage presence of the band though resulted in the friendly departure of 2nd guitarist Emppu Vuorinen who in December 2003 decided to concentrate on his work and upcoming, massive touring plans with his main band NIGHTWISH.
On the new album ALTARIA show themselves responsible for the producing slot whereas the mix this time took place at Tico Tico Studios and was done by Ahti Kortelainen (SONATA ARCTICA, SENTENCED).
The mastering - as on the debut CD - again was handled by Mika Jussila (STRATOVARIUS a.o.) at Finnvox Studios in Helsinki, Finland. The result is “Divinity”, a sparkling melodic metal album with a typical Scandinavian approach to catchy hooks, powerful guitar riffs, controlled but striking heavyness & power, remarkable melodies and a versatile instrumentation.
The limited edition first pressing of the CD will be available as digi-pack including one bonus song; a cover version of ACCEPT's metal hymn “Balls To The Wall” on which guest vocalist Andy Engberg (LIONS SHARE/ DREAMSFALL/ SECTION A) joins forces with Taage Laiho for a blistering duet. Get ready to metal with “Divinity”!
For more info: www.altariamusic.com
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