German progressive rock band Eloy released their 18th studio album and it’s the latest of a number of concept albums, this one about the legend of Joan Of Arc. "The Vision, The Sword And The Pyre" is starting a new chapter that brings back the big soundscapes that are so typical for this band, being also one pillar for this impressive rock opera. Fronted by founder guitarist, vocalist and sole permanent member Frank Bornemann (who has also worked as a producer of a number of name bands), this new set is the first since 2009's "Visionary", is as good as ever. The album is a rock opera that is different to most of the genre and guests (including Canadian singer Alice Merton as Joan Of Arc), and the story is told as if by Jean De Metz, who witnessed the life and events, and kept factual as seen rather than interpreted. The use of brachial choir to delicate children's voices all add gravitas to the story and the atmosphere. This is part 1 of the concept, something that Frank Bornemann has researched in depth.

Tracklist:

1.The Age Of The Hundred Years' War 2.Domremy On The 6th Of January 1412 3.Early Signs... From A Longed For Miracle 4.Autumn 1428 At Home 5.The Call 6.Vaucouleurs 7.The Ride By Night... Towards The Predestined Fate 8.Chinon 9.The Prophecy 10.The Sword... The Dawning Of The Unavoidable 11.Orleans 12.Les Tourelles 13.Why?

Lineup:

Fank Bornemann - vocals, guitar, Hannes Folberth - keyboards, Michael Gerlach - keyboards, Klaus-Peter Matziol - bass, Bodo Schopf - drums. Additional musicians: Anke Renner - vocals, Volker Kuinke - recorder