GALACTIC EMPIRE

Episode II

RISE

Star Wars-guided instrumentalists must

be Yavin a laugh

If you’re someone who doesn’t froth from every orifice, or go searching for that annual ‘May the fourth be with you’ meme, at the mention of the Star Wars phenomenon, then Galactic Empire’s John Williams-inspired prog-metal antics may have eluded your earholes. Well, this merry band of instrumentalists are back to ahem, disturb the Force – or, if you’re a cynical sort, capitalise on the whole sequel hoopla – with sophomore release Episode II. As an album opener, there’s no denying that March Of The Resistance is inescapably evocative, while current single Scherzo For

X-Wings, Hyperspace and The

Droid Invasion And The Appearance Of Darth Maul are all awash with shredding guitars, technically intricate drum blasts and swirls of dark melody. Unfortunately,

Episode II’s lasting impression is one of déjà vu, and ultimately it lacks the majestic gravitas created in Williams’ original scoring. FOR FANS OF: JOHN WILIAMS, STOVOKOR, INTERVALS