The Flashcards: Waterland - Virtual Time (2010)

75/100

The Portuguese melodic power metal unit Waterland delivers their second album, featuring synth electronic/dance nuances that carry a eurobeat relevance, even if it feels a bit childish or cheesy. Hey, that's a signature trait of power metal, my friend. The vocals and melodies in "Destiny II" strongly remind me of Haeredium, particularly their track "Breathe," though that French band leans more toward folk/power metal. Other related acts include Degitx and Beast in Black, but Waterland still holds onto that signature subgenre momentum where the music flows fast and heavy, much like Dreamtale, Power Quest, and the ultimate seniors, Stratovarius. Prime examples include the title track, "A Passage to Eternity," and "A Rainbow in the Night," which highlights prominent cymbal taps.

Well, even though this is the only full album available on streaming platforms, Waterland simply cannot be overlooked. Highly recommended because their aggressiveness is quite consistent and fresh.

Tracklist:

1. Destiny II

2. Wait Forever

3. New Winds of Time

4. Virtual Time

5. Queen of Light

6. A Passage to Eternity

7. Carry On

8. The Prophecy

9. New World

10. A Rainbow in the Night

11. You and I

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