Is Enigma: Intermission II a good place to start with Stratovarius?

Yes, Enigma: Intermission II is recommended as a starting point for new Stratovarius listeners. Epic melodies and soaring vocals intertwine with symphonic arrangements, creating a powerful landscape of progressive power metal. Released in September 2018, Enigma: Intermission II is Stratovarius' first album since the band's lineup changes earlier that year. Following their previous release, Eternal (2015), this album serves as a bridge between their classic sound and new explorations in orchestral arrangements.

Who is Enigma: Intermission II for?

Enigma: Intermission II works well if you're into dynamic emotional journeys, long immersive listening sessions and layered dense sonic textures.

How many songs are on Enigma: Intermission II?

Enigma: Intermission II has 16 tracks, running approximately 75 minutes.

Enigma: Intermission II

Stratovarius · 2018

75 min · 16 tracks · power metal

Epic melodies and soaring vocals intertwine with symphonic arrangements, creating a powerful landscape of progressive power metal.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Enigma Start here — The opening track sets the tone for the album with its intricate melodies and powerful chorus, embodying the essence of Stratovarius' sound.
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Hunter — This track showcases aggressive riffs paired with anthemic choruses, highlighting the band's signature blend of speed and melody.
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Fireborn — With its thematic depth and engaging narrative, Fireborn stands out as a representation of the band's storytelling prowess within their musical framework.
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Kill It With Fire — This energetic track combines fast-paced instrumentation with a catchy hook, demonstrating the band’s ability to create memorable power metal anthems.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album blends power metal with orchestral elements, showcasing strong compositions but uneven cohesion due to its varied styles.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features high-energy tracks with fast tempos and intricate guitar solos, while the second half shifts to orchestral arrangements that slow the pace.
Several tracks incorporate symphonic elements, such as strings and choirs, which enhance the epic quality of the music.
The album includes both original songs and orchestral versions, creating a contrast between traditional power metal and more classical influences.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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

dynamic emotional journeys
long immersive listening sessions
layered dense sonic textures
gradual builds and payoffs

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — Features orchestral versions and showcases their innovative approach, appealing to dedicated fans.
Themes: symphonic power metal· mythical storytelling· aggressive riffs
Career context: Released in September 2018, Enigma: Intermission II is Stratovarius' first album since the band's lineup changes earlier that year. Following their previous release, Eternal (2015), this album serves as a bridge between their classic sound and new explorations in orchestral arrangements.
Stylistic neighbors: Helloween· Blind Guardian· Gamma Ray

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Hallowed

The narrative shifts from personal reflection to a broader commentary on existence and legacy, emphasizing themes of mortality and remembrance.