This latest, in what has become an increasing trend in power metal circles, sees a merging of two leaders, a demon and wizard perhaps, each recognized for their capable prowess at the controls of their own highly innovative machines, coming together for the first time in what will be a highly sought new recording. "Demons & Wizards" is a hybrid that combines the voice behind the prog-metal storytellers, Blind Guardian, and the riff-master behind the explosive power-metal of stateside favorites Iced Earth. Hansi Kursch and Jon Schaffer together embark in a navigation of two fairly divergent styles that quickly can be heard as a natural blending of resources that brings them together on their ultimate "Path Of Glory."

The Demon & Wizard might be indicative of each of their points of origination, but as a unit, this is indeed a winning team. Acting in perfect unison, elements from both bands are soon realized, yet an independence does exist, not so much in the form of a rebellious teen defying authority but in this case steering clear of certain facets of their past identities.

The songs are clearly focused, each with their own significant purpose and tightly constructed. They're less evasive from the point of origin, though conceptually conspired only in well chosen areas. Similar to the arrival of the Kai Hansen-led side project Iron Savior, still going strong, expect the same stellar results here. "Demons & Wizards" have already laid plans to play live through the course of the year, and with the seemingly endless fountain of ideas each collaborator possesses in keeping their host bands going as long as they have, don't be surprised to see more new material in the coming months.

As the skies prepare to open once again, and life as we know it becomes engulfed in a New World where fantasy clashes with reality, beauty with darkness, "Demons & Wizards" will be there.