Prepare for Finland’s unparalleled talent
A forlorn ringleader sits dejectedly in his tattered and torn recliner. There’s a conglomeration of imagery, the entire album cover demands attention. Although it’s advisable to avoid judging a book by its cover, listeners can rightfully judge this album by its artwork — the music and artwork are both flawless, imaginative and exactly what the music industry needs. Upon pressing play, it takes only a split second to realize that Circus of Rock’s latest album, Lost Behind the Mask, is nothing short of a masterpiece. There’s the wonderment that attaches itself to an album as anticipated as this one, especially with the accomplished set of virtuosos who’ve come together to create this musical paragon.
As the album unfurls, “Alive and Kicking” does what it promises, the details in the minutia. The entire track is expertly crafted, the vocals showcasing a jaw-dropping range and an unstoppable vibrato. As the lyrics make way for the coveted guitar solo, what comes through the speakers can only be described as an other-worldly force to reckon with.
But the music doesn’t stop there and neither does Circus of Rock’s unparalleled talent. It doesn’t matter where your music proclivities lie — could be country, could be Gregorian chants — Circus of Rock is simply infectious. There are no two ways about it. And the album is just getting started.
“Keep on Shining” is another showstopper and once again, reminiscent of the ‘80s but so…much…better. “Holdin’ the Gun” slow-walks its way across the album, slightly more subdued but still powerful with heavy guitar riffs and a beat that refuses to quit. Soul-stirring vocals once again demand attention, a truly impressive range and glass-shattering falsetto that only a coveted few have mastered. But this comes as no surprise as Circus of Rock is a colossal collaboration with an incredible lineup of musicians, each track featuring special guests. Regardless of who’s playing what, the music is a massive opus of extraordinary talent, to say the least.
The entire album is perfectly executed, one impeccable track after the next. Lost Behind the Mask is the sophomore album to Circus of Rock’s debut album, Come One, Come All, released in 2021, an all-star lineup of multifaceted musicians presenting to the world a solid album. There’s even a complimentary bonus track —“Edge of Destiny”— akin to an ‘80s power ballad and a perfect outro to an album of such magnitude.
The only thing left to do after listening to Lost Behind the Mask is to simply demand more and then some.
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