And today? There is hardly anything in their eighth studio album _Pariah's Child_ that distinguishes Sonata Artica from any other melodic metal band. In many of the songs you even have to search very hard for the "metal" component. The speedy parts with the characteristic double bass have vanished from almost all songs. Only "Running Lights" shows some of the typical, early Sonata Arctica elements such as variations in speed and heavier guitars. Most of the other songs focus on catchy tunes and endless repetitions, with less variation in the vocals compared to the band's early works. Keyboards and programming are the dominant element, which is not surprising for a melodic medal album, but I could live with less of the jingling bells and music box-like interludes.

The only song which sticks out of the album is "Half a Marathon Man" which is heavily interspersed with elements from the hard rock and heavy metal genres. Due to this difference in style, it almost sounds like a cover version. Finally, Tony shows that his voice has much more to offer than the other songs might make us believe.

There is nothing to criticize on the technical level of the album; the musicians show their versatility, the production is well done. It's just a pity that despite all this concentrated talent, the band doesn't seem to create something more special. I'd prefer songs with less catchy tunes, less repetitions, less focus on the vocals and maybe more variation and edge in the voice. In short: more metal, less mainstream.