The Wicked Symphony

Released in 2010 as part of a double-album event alongside 'Angel of Babylon', 'The Wicked Symphony' serves as the second chapter in the 'Scarecrow' saga. It marks a significant evolution for Tobias Sammet's Avantasia project, moving further away from the pure European power metal of the early 'Metal Opera' albums toward a more diverse, hard-rock-influenced symphonic sound. The album is notable for its incredible roster of guest vocalists, including Russell Allen (Symphony X), Jorn Lande, Klaus Meine (Scorpions), and Ripper Owens. Recorded primarily at Gatestudio in Wolfsburg, the production emphasizes a 'wall of sound' approach that integrates a real orchestra with modern metal instrumentation. Critics generally praised the album for its songwriting maturity and the seamless integration of its many guest stars, noting that Sammet had successfully transitioned Avantasia from a side project into a premier force in the global metal scene.