What makes Follow the Blind by Blind Guardian notable?

Follow the Blind received critical acclaim, helping to solidify Blind Guardian’s reputation in the power metal scene. The track 'Valhalla' became a defining anthem for the genre, often cited as influential in shaping the thematic direction of later power metal bands. The album also garnered attention for its lyrical depth and musical complexity, contributing to ongoing discussions about the evolution of heavy metal in the late 1980s. Released in 1989, Follow the Blind is Blind Guardian's second studio album, following their debut, Battalions of Fear. The band was beginning to establish their signature sound, blending intricate melodies with fantasy-themed lyrics that would define their future work. This album marked a pivotal point as they transitioned from a more traditional speed metal approach to a more symphonic and narrative-driven style.

Who is Follow the Blind for?

Follow the Blind works well if you're into dynamic emotional journeys, long immersive listening sessions and wave-like pacing experiences.

How many songs are on Follow the Blind?

Follow the Blind has 10 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Follow the Blind

Blind Guardian · 1989

42 min · 10 tracks · power metal

Epic storytelling unfolds through intricate guitar riffs and soaring vocals, embodying the essence of power metal.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Valhalla — This track embodies the album's themes of myth and legend, featuring powerful vocals and a memorable chorus that resonates within the power metal community.
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Banish From Sanctuary — With its fast-paced instrumentation and dynamic shifts, this song showcases the band's ability to blend aggression with melodic elements, highlighting their distinct sound.
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Follow the Blind — The title track serves as a centerpiece for the album, weaving intricate narrative elements with outstanding musical composition that captures the listener's imagination.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100

Foothills

Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album combines intricate melodies and thematic storytelling, marking a solid entry in power metal.

What we noticed

Guitar solos are prominent throughout, often layered with harmonized vocals that create a rich texture.
Several tracks incorporate orchestral elements, enhancing the epic feel and supporting the fantasy themes in the lyrics.

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

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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
wave-like pacing experiences
epic storytelling through music

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Helped solidify Blind Guardian's reputation in power metal, gaining wider recognition.
Career context: Released in 1989, Follow the Blind is Blind Guardian's second studio album, following their debut, Battalions of Fear. The band was beginning to establish their signature sound, blending intricate melodies with fantasy-themed lyrics that would define their future work. This album marked a pivotal point as they transitioned from a more traditional speed metal approach to a more symphonic and narrative-driven style.
Stylistic neighbors: Helloween· Iced Earth· DragonForce