Only the truly dedicated can keep the flame burning for nearly four decades. With an abundance of creative vigour and endless class, Stratovarius have earned the right to be considered true legends. Emerging from a vibrant metal ‘80s metal scene, Stratovarius swiftly made their mark with early albums like gritty debut Fright Night (1989) and its more sophisticated follow-up Twilight Time (1992). Stratovarius spent the decade becoming increasingly successful, effectively defining the European power metal sound single-handedly and touring relentlessly all over the world. Meanwhile, a steady succession of acclaimed albums, including certified genre benchmarks like Visions (1997) and Destiny (1998), broke the melodic mould. Despite multiple line-up changes, the Stratovarius spirit always remained proud and true, and a new millennium ushered in the band’s most productive period yet. Recent years have seen Stratovarius sustain their exalted status as power metal gods, with each successive album adding new shades to the band’s melodic colour spectrum, while always delivering the jolting dose of heavy metal power that fans demand. Finland’s finest have been resolute in delivering the goods. Fast forward to 2022 and Stratovarius are making up for lost time. Seven years after the release of Eternal, Finland’s melodic masters have finally conjured a new, full-length album, Survive.