Back for My Life cover

Back for My Life

Masterplan · 2004

25 min · 6 tracks · power metal

Melodic power metal infused with soaring vocals and intricate guitar solos, creating a vibrant yet heavy sonic landscape.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Back for My Life (single version) — This title track combines catchy melodies with powerful instrumentation, serving as an anthem that encapsulates the themes of resilience and return central to the album.
  • →
    Killing in Time — This track showcases intricate guitar work and dynamic shifts, illustrating the band's ability to blend aggression with melody effectively.
  • →
    Crimson Rider — Featuring an engaging chorus and compelling narrative, this song highlights Masterplan's storytelling prowess while maintaining their signature sound.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

56 /100
Foothills
Higher than 47% of albums we've rated

The EP features strong melodies and skilled performances but lacks a cohesive narrative across its tracks.

What we noticed

  • The title track features a soaring vocal melody that is complemented by rapid guitar solos, creating a dynamic interplay between vocals and instrumentation.
  • Each of the first four tracks maintains a high-energy tempo, with intricate arrangements that include layered harmonies and fast-paced drumming.
  • The instrumental version of 'Killing in Time' showcases the band's musicianship, allowing the guitar work to take center stage without vocal distraction.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • soaring vocals for uplifting moments
  • short bursts of energetic intensity
  • punchy tracks for quick engagement
  • instrumental interlude for reflective pause

Maybe skip if you

  • long, immersive listening preference
  • slow-paced, drawn-out compositions

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in late 2004, Back for My Life marked Masterplan's third studio album, following their previous release, Aeronautics. The album came during a time when the band was solidifying their lineup after the departure of original vocalist Jorn Lande, showcasing a new direction under the guidance of singer Mike DiMeo.
Stylistic neighbors
Kamelot· Sonata Arctica· DragonForce

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Back for My Life (single version) 3:42
  • 2 Crimson Rider 3:59
  • 3 Love Is a Rock 4:31
  • 4 Killing in Time 4:32
  • 5 Killing in Time (instrumental version) 4:31
  • 6 Back for My Life 4:12

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata