Last year I really liked the idea of writing a list, so now it's a series:)

This year there were a lot of great albums, there were "new riders", and a lot of old riders brought renewal for themselves.

The list is not in order, just a list again.

But I'll start with probably my biggest favourites this year, who I didn't know before:

Dagorlath - Apocalipsis

Spanish, massive amounts of turbo, sensational, melodic choruses, insane solos, this album was a big surprise and quickly became a favourite.

Rebel - Fényhozó

Rebel was one of the great Hungarian discoveries of the year 2024 for me, their new album was really good, and they gave a great performance as the opening act of Freedom Call. I will be watching them very closely:)

Arcane Tales - Until Where The Northern Lights Reign

Rhapsody is even better than Rhapsody of Fire, perfectly bringing the Luca Turilli/Fabio Lione era, definitely worth a try.

Windrow - Deus Universi

Another discovery by an Italian who is now considered to be very experienced. The singer could sing lower here and there, but otherwise a sensational album.

Wind Rose - Trollslayer

Our favourite dwarves have once again not disappointed, and will continue at their usual level.

Sonata Arctica - Clear Cold Beyond

The Toni's went back to basics, and how well they did, they delivered a damn strong power album.

Freedom Call - Silver Romance

They are incapable of making mistakes, and although there are one or two recycled tunes, I simply can't listen to the new album without a big grin.

Fellowship - The Skies Above Eternity

After their wonderful start in 2023, here's the sequel. At first listen it sounds a bit weaker, but as you get to know the new songs, this album gets stronger and stronger... looking forward to the next one:)

Veonity - The Final Element

With a new singer, but at the same level and tempo as before, Sweden's Veonity continues.

Hammerfall - Avenge The Fallen

Hammerfall are also back to their roots, and after a relatively disappointing last album, they have now come out with a very strong album. Never worse from them.

Powerwolf - Wake Up The Wicked

Our favourite Wolves also brought their usual. I don't know how much more there is in their music, but this is another strong album from them.

Dragony - Hic Svnt Dracones

I've been waiting for a new album from the Austrian dragonslayers for a long time, and although I miss the fast songs, this is a very good album.

Vhäldemar

Another great heavy/power album from one of my favourites. Although Primal Fear would make equally good albums - although Vhäldemar is a bit different:)

 Thornbridge - Daydream Illusion

It's been 5 years since the last Thornbridge album and I was very curious to see what the Germans could bring after all the time away. There were 2 member changes, luckily the style stayed the same:)

Fortunately, this year I don't have to write a disappointing list like last year. The old bikers have delivered what we loved them for, and the new ones, if not reinventing power metal, have delivered great albums. I look forward to 2025 with curiosity.

I wish you all a Power Metal Rich New Year.

KiB