Side projects, solo efforts, collaborations and the like can be great things, and they can also be shitty. Do you remember Glenn Tipton's solo album? Unfortunately, I can't seem to forget it. On the other hand, how about Bruce Dickinson's latest? Yes, awesome to say the least. DEMONS & WIZARDS is a joint effort between two heavy hitters of power metal, vocalist Hansi Kursch of BLIND GUARDIAN and guitarist Jon Schaffer of ICED EARTH. Again, I must mention that even with the reputations that precede them, this release could be a total disaster, as many of these collaborations are (can you say POUNDHOUND?, THRASHER SUPERSESSION?, or MD.45?). Let me tell you, if I were marooned at sea, I would pray that these two guys were on my lifeboat. They seem to connect on a basic level, one that is so elementary, they may have been separated at birth. Ten songs here of blazing guitar, operatic vocals, and damned interesting heavy metal. The fact that Bobby Jarzombek bangs the skins in his godlike fashion doesn't hurt either.

This combo takes the best elements of their 'day-jobs' and gives us something not altogether new, but still different and fresh. Kursch effortlessly brings his smooth voice to the front of the mix. Schaffer's guitar work is superb. These galloping triplets will make you wanna rub some Ben Gay on your wrist just from playing air guitar. The music here is so natural and flows so well, it reminds me of MERCYFUL FATE in their heyday. You can hear the whole gamut and still be amazed each time you listen. D&W start with the title track, which has some lightning guitar work, washing quickly into tracks like "Seize the Day" which are slower. acoustic-based pieces. There are even songs that flaunt both ends of the spectrum, like "Love's Tragedy Asunder", which combines killer 80's inspired power riffs with lighter colorful interludes.

This is not your average power metal record. Not even close. This is the kind of recording that many bands aspire to and fall way short. Call it a 'measuring stick' for the wannabes, and if you like ICED EARTH, BLIND GUARDIAN, or metal in general, pick it up.

- Murtaugh

OFFICIAL SITE: myspace.com/demonswizards

RELATED ITEMS: No related articles at this time.