Orientation

by

Sonata Arctica

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sure it's a bit pricey for 4 songs..one of which (Black Sheep) appears on their "Silence" cd, but you get three tracks you won't find anywhere else...an acostic and far better version of Mary-Lou, a 100% better version of Midler's Wind Beneath My Wings, and an Iron Maiden cover as well! (Die With Your Boots On)...I suppose because of the price it appeals to only the die hard Sonata fans...but this is the kind of band you will either love or hate...and if you love 'em, you'll need this one added to your collection...also check out their new (2003) EP called "Victoria's Secret"...it has a cover of Metallica's Fade to Black!

I'm a serious SA fan, and I jumped at the chance to hear more of their covers and rareities. Fair notification for those looking at this album: this isn't precisely the pinnacle of SA's output. A few of the tracks appear elsewhere, and their cover of "Wind Beneath My Wings" -- while novel -- doesn't really sound like they brought much fresh to the party. The primary reason to get this disc is for the acoustic version of "Mary Lou", one of SA's critical tracks about relationships and a great song in its original form. Some might prefer this version for the improved intelligibility of the lyrics and more introspective cadence. In any case, if you've got to devour all things Sonata, this is not a bad way to go. Otherwise, try snagging all the main albums first, and look at Takatalvi as the first option for EPs.