Here in Avalon

Rock and metal flagship Avantasia return with thrilling 10th studio album, 'Here Be Dragons'!
Featuring absolute Avantasia essentials such as spellbinding choirs and theatrical symphonic metal elements, multitalented mastermind and frontman Tobias Sammet also surprises fans old and new with plenty of intriguing fresh soundscapes. Here Be Dragons gives the celebrated Avantasia sound that has been carefully crafted over a quarter of a century an exciting and powerful spin. The new album is the most consistent and concise piece of art that the band has ever crafted.
In typical Avantasia manner, the new full-length is rich in vivid storytelling and cinematic atmospheres, not to mention the highest level of musicianship…

This album showcases the romantic melodies by one of this century’s great composers. Even after 60 years, George Gershwin’s music continues to have a fresh and enchanting appeal. Performed by an orchestra of strings, harp, celesta, oboe and english horn, this recording has a lush, sensuous quality that enables listeners to savor the subtle charm of these famous tunes.

John Pizzarelli's singing has improved through the years, he has become a particularly strong guitarist (very adept at fast tempos), and his likable personality has remained as constant as his love for swing-era tunes. Joined by a swinging big band arranged by Don Sebesky in the style of Count Basie, Pizzarelli and his trio (with pianist Ray Kennedy and bassist Martin Pizzarelli) play enthusiastically on a set of swingers and ballads. Although the slower material is fine, it is the romps (particularly "Avalon," "Little Girl," "Rhythm Is Our Business" and the instrumental "Say Hey Kid") that are most memorable. An enjoyable outing.