I was not sure what to expect from Karelia’s new release, which due out in stores on May 30th, 2005. As I listen from track to track this is an amazing release. Vocally Matthieu Kleiber shines; Erwin Morice guitar work is outstanding, Loïc Jenn drumming is superb, Bertrand Maiillot keyboards are heavenly, and Gilles Thiebaut does an excellent job on bass. “Raise,” the first track on the CD, is slow paced with choir-like background vocals. “Child Has Gone” has the feeling of NIN until the keyboards enter. This is an outstanding track.

This is my first time hearing Karelia. All aspects of the music are mesmerizing. Arrangement are top notch, lyric’s are over the top. What a CD!!! “The Hermit” I felt like I was reaching the promise land. “Unbreakable Cordon” is a melodic ballad - come on... get those lighters out - FANTASTIC!

There is not much I can say about “Raise” except that it is phenomenal! From track one to ten, it was a true pleasure to listen to. If you’re a Power Metal / Symphonic Metal fan, make this CD a priority. The future looks bright for Karelia.

Rock Eyez interview with Matthieu Kleiber (Karelia).