Power metal is a genre that can cover a multitude of subjects, but steam-era tank trains would be a first for me. That said, I am not surprised by “Power Train” given Majestica’s track record (including when they were known as ReinXeed) forthe dramatic and maybe less than usual subjects. This year marks 25 years since ReinXeed was formed, helmed by vocalist and guitarist Tommy Johansson. Their sound from the very beginning was defined by theatrical storytelling and soundtrack sensibilities making for a rather unique flavor of power metal. In 2018, ReinXeed changed their name to Majestica. As Majestica, they previously released two strong albums, the most recent being a symphonic metal setting of Charles Dickens’ “The Christmas Carol.” Coming off of Christmas where said album was played more than a few times at my house, “Power Train” is a very welcome arrival.
I was bracing for cheese time with the title of “Power Train,” but I was pleasantly surprised. Majestica brandishes some of the most infectious and energetic power metal with the grandest stature through orchestral support and backing choirs. The technical talent is on full display, but always at the service for the larger work as the album, albeit not a concept album, serves as a tone poem for riding on a train. It goes fast, it slows for the dangerous spots, it heads into a storm, but ultimately it lands at its destination in triumph over the trials set before it. Suspending any self-seriousness on my part, there is some great inspiration in the lyrics to lift up any gloomy listener.
The opening “Power Train” is full of high energy and anticipatory optimism at the station leading into “No Pain, No Gain” which shifts into mid-tempo with a cool rhythmic chorus alluding to the rhythm of the rails. “Battle Cry” has folk metal feel, changing rhythm into a triple meter like a train running over a fresh set of tracks before slowing for the dangerous bend for “Megatrue,” a slower heavy stomping tune showcasing some excellent bass work. On the other side of the bend, “My Epic Dragon” showcases an expansive fantasy landscape with galloping guitars in classic metal style before riding into the dark storm of neoclassicism in “Thunder Power” and “A Story In The Night.” The final three tracks show the train coming out of the storm, building on each other to proclaim victory over the journey in an inspirational flourish.
The writing is solid like a train. Every part and every note is expertly crafted and woven into the songs and balances firm structure in the verses and choruses with the whimsy of the instrumental breaks. Key changes and classical sequences provide interest while showing a wide array of influences like the aforementioned folk metal and 80s pop in “Go Higher.” The deliberate writing with the high quality production gives the final product a finish of excellence.
The songs use rich orchestration that is wielded in the right measures to give pomp and dynamics without collapsing under its own weight. There is this ever infectious drive forward with heavy palm muted chords and unrelenting drums that mimic the rhythm of the railroad. Tommy’s vocals are some of the best in the business delivering melodies that are catchy enough to sing one moment and breathtakingly challenging the next, all with incredible passion. I particularly appreciate the controlled use of vibrato which I wish more melodic metal vocalists would follow. Orchestral instruments and backing choirs elevate this driving train to mythical levels transporting the listener far away without drawing too much attention to the magic being woven. The guitar solos are right-sized, balancing melodic sensibilities and technical showmanship.
Although the opener makes reference to the “Power Train,” there is more references to battles, victory, and glory than to the power of steam. These songs would fit well talking about Middle Earth or vikings. The lyrics are pretty good and can be quite uplifting in the rather pessimistic world that we live in. The music supports these lyrical themes well without taking even one detour into ballad territory.
Few albums have I liked as much as “Power Train” from the first spin. This is one of my favorite power metal albums that I have reviewed here and an early contender for my top 10 this year. Even though it is rich, my ears never get tired; even though it looks like an inside joke, it is inspiring; even though the musicianship is out of this world, it is accessible. For power metal listeners, this is a genre-defining work and well worth the cost to get a copy.
Rating: 10/10
Written by Sean Bailey
Tracklist
1 – Power Train
2 – No Pain, No Gain
3 – Battle Cry
4 – Megatrue
5 – My Epic Dragon
6 – Thunder Power
7 – A Story In The Night
8 – Go Higher
9 – Victorious
10 – Alliance Anthem
Majestica is:
Chris Davidsson – bass and vocals
Tommy Johansson – guitars, lead vocals, and orchestration
Joel Kollberg – guitars and vocals
Petter Hjerpe – drums and vocals
Release Date: February 7, 2025
Record Label: Nuclear Blast Records
Discography:
Above The Sky (2019) [review]
A Christmas Carol (2021) [review]
Power Train (2025)
Social Media: Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Spotify
Video for Power Train
Video for A Story In The Night
Video for Battle Cry