Primal Fear - Primal Fear, Luca Turilli's Rhapsody

International Metal Tour Rocks Dallas

Two of the top metal bands in the world, Germany's Primal Fear and Italy's Luca Turilli's Rhapsody came to Trees and put on a killer show that fans will be talking about for a long time to come. But before either international metal band took the stage, Dallas' own progressive power metal band, Infidel Rising impressed the crowd with music from their debut CD, The Torn Wings of Illusion. Highlights included the epic title track and their first single, "The Power of Goodbye." We'll be hearing a lot more from them in the future.

Rhapsody fans have waited over 20 years to see the maestro, Luca Turilli do a full U.S. tour. As lyricist and composer for Rhapsody, Turilli pioneered the symphonic power metal genre, combining classical, cinematic and fantasy elements in his music. The band was on tour in support of their latest album, Prometheus but the setlist was heavy on the classics longtime fans had been waiting to hear. Turilli put on a guitar clinic, soloing and shredding like a madman. While he was obviously the star of the show, the rest of his band were given plenty of opportunities to shine as well. Both drummer, Alex Landenburg and bassist Patrice Guers were given lengthy solos of their own and returning guitarist, Dominique Leurquin shared a great dual guitar solo with Turilli. Meanwhile, vocalist Alessandro Conti belted out song after song with his incredible vocal range. Highlights included "Land of Immortals," "Unholy Warcry," "The Pride of the Tyrant," "Dawn of Victory" and "Emerald Sword." Hopefully the wait to see this incredible band again will be much shorter next time.

The German Metal Commando, Primal Fear are no strangers to the U.S. and have toured the States regularly. They are arguably the top power metal band in the world and it showed in their performance. They hit hard and fast and took no prisoners. Frontman Ralf Scheepers has one of the greatest voices in metal. Scheepers controlled the crowd like a master, getting them to chant, clap and sing along on command. Veteran bassist Mat Sinner, guitarists Alex Beyrodt and Tom Naumann worked together like a well oiled metal machine and newest member, drummer Francesco Jovino (UDO) fit in perfectly. Highlights included "Final Embrace," "Angel In Black," "The Sky Is Burning," "Nuclear Fire," and "Chainbreaker." After closing with their signature anthem, "Metal Is Forever," the band returned for two mighty encores, "Rollercoaster" and "Running in the Dust" to end a fantastic night of metal. This was easily one of the best metal shows of the year.