Limited 6-Panel-Digipak Edition. Includes 3 Bonus Tracks (10-12)
Recorded and engineered from March 2020 to March 2021.
Mixed in July 2021.
Mastered in August 2021.
The sticker reads:
"From beyond the spheres, metal masters BLIND GUARDIAN return with their eleventh studio opus. "The God Machine" perfectly unites heaviness, epic arrangements, and majestic melodies.
LIMITED EDITION DIGIPAK WITH THREE BONUS TRACKS"
The God Machine (CD) by Blind Guardian (Nuclear Blast)
Blind Guardian: A Short Bio
Blind Guardian is a German power metal band formed in 1984. They are known for their complex and intricate songwriting, soaring vocals, and epic lyrical themes, often drawing inspiration from mythology, fantasy, and literature.
Throughout their career, Blind Guardian has achieved significant success, selling millions of albums worldwide and garnering critical acclaim. They have released 12 studio albums, with several reaching gold and platinum status in various countries. Some of their most popular songs include "Valhalla", "The Bard's Song", and "Mirror Mirror".
The God Machine: A Detailed Description
"The God Machine" is the 12th studio album by Blind Guardian, released in 2022. It is a concept album that tells the story of a powerful artificial intelligence that becomes self-aware and seeks to control humanity. The album features 11 tracks, each exploring different aspects of this narrative.
Musically, "The God Machine" showcases Blind Guardian's signature sound, combining powerful riffs, soaring vocals, and intricate arrangements. The album also incorporates elements of progressive metal, with extended instrumental sections and complex song structures. Lyrically, the album delves into themes of technology, artificial intelligence, and the potential dangers of unchecked power.
Nuclear Blast: A Brief Overview
Nuclear Blast is an independent record label founded in 1987. It specializes in heavy metal and related genres, and is home to a diverse roster of artists, including Blind Guardian, Nightwish, and Sabaton. Nuclear Blast is known for its commitment to quality and its support of emerging artists.
Conclusion
"The God Machine" is a powerful and thought-provoking album that showcases Blind Guardian's musical and lyrical prowess. It is a must-listen for fans of power metal and anyone interested in exploring the potential dangers of artificial intelligence.
Although not as upbeat as a lot of their previous albums it's still great to hear the more stripped down sound they had 30 years ago.
Hong Rui T. - 23/Dec/2022
The last (and only) Blind Guardian album that I liked was Imaginations from the Other Side. Until The God Machine - a nice balance between orchestral, symphonic, and speedy power metal.