This is the Finnish band Sonata Arctica's fifth full-length CD. They started as a straight ahead power metal band, but their style has evolved over the years.
Their latest release is Unia, the Finnish word for "dreams." It has some power metal elements, but Sonata Arctica has really expanded their repertoire. This album is darker and more progressive than their previous work. A lot of keyboards are used (sometimes too many), which adds that dark atmosphere. It's melodic, but lacks a lot of really memorable hooks or choruses.
Vocalist Tony Kakko has an excellent voice. He can crank up the intensity and sing in a traditional power metal style, but also has the ability to be very expressive and emotional on the quieter tracks. There are some good moments on Unia, with a couple of really strong songs, but overall it's not one of Sonata Arctica's best.
