Demons and Wizards

They're one of the most hyped new projects in power metal, a new collaborative effort between Iced Earth guitarist Jon Schaffer and Blind Guardian vocalist Hansi Kursch. The two joined forces when their respective bands toured together across Europe. Musically, the band is not so surprisingly similar to both of the musician's usual bands, although due to Kursch's distinctively high vocal range the band does end up sounding more like Blind Guardian than Iced Earth. I'm not a fan of BG at all, yet Demons and Wizards is a pleasant aural treat. It's carried by strong tracks like "Heaven Denied" and "Poor Man's Crusade," two songs that really showcase Schaffer's guitar playing without crossing the line into wankery.