MASTERPLAN – Metalmorphosis

If not including PumpKings (2017), which was a covers album featuring Helloween songs that guitarist Roland Grapow wrote when he was in the band, the last studio album that German power metal band Masterplan released was Novum Initium (2013). The latter was released through AFM Records. By the way, the concept behind the PumpKings album is pathetic; it’s like Dave Mustaine doing his own version of “Ride the Lightning” on Megadeth’s self-titled album as a full-circle moment because he co-wrote it with Metallica. Why revisit the past to try to prove a point? Anyways, the pressure was on for Masterplan’s latest record, Metalmorphosis, released on June 26, 2026 through Frontiers Music Srl. The lineup that plays on the new album includes Rick Altzi on lead vocals, Grapow on guitars, Jari Kainulainen on bass guitar, Kevin Kott on drums, and Axel Mackenrott on keyboards.

The Beginning of a New Chapter

The album begins with “Chase the Light,” which is a barnstorming opener with luscious orchestral arrangements combined with blistering guitar melodies. Altzi’s raspy vocals deliver the oomph and power needed for the heavy metal genre. His vocals scream confidence, attitude, and charisma. “Electric Nights” is about the adrenaline the band experiences when performing live and the sheer excitement of being in a heavy metal band. The chorus is not great, but the feel and inspiration behind the song make it a worthwhile listen. “Shadow Man” is a slow headbanger with a monstrous groove and nasty guitar distortion. It’s dark, atmospheric, and evil sounding, thanks to the well-crafted instrumentation.

“Through the Storm” is a speed metal banger with tasteful drumming, heavy guitar distortion, and a thick bass line. The lyrics are positive and anthemic, inspiring listeners to rise from the dark and chase their dreams. “The Call” is the big epic on Metalmorphosis and a dang good one! The hook for the chorus is excellent, the melodies are gorgeous, the angelic backing vocals take the song to a whole new level, and it’s basically a progressive heavy metal orchestra. When done right, heavy metal can sound like a beautiful orchestra. The album closes with the triumphant “Rise Again,” which was initially released as a single in 2024. Given the transformative theme present on Metalmorphosis, the song works perfectly for the album. It’s a song where listeners can hold their fists up proudly in the sky with hope and optimism.

Final Assessment

Sonically, the album sounds amazing with the modern production. All of the band members are truly gifted musicians and know how to play their instruments really well. It’s cool how the guitar distortion is different for certain songs; “Chase the Light” has a cleaner tone, while “Shadow Man” has a more aggressive tone. A slight complaint with Metalmorphosis, however, is the songs don’t have staying power. When listening to the songs, they’re enjoyable and the instrumentation is excellent, but as soon as they end, they’re easily forgotten. Even after a few listens, it’s hard to remember how the songs go. Unfortunately, there’s a lot going on in power metal, to the point where they lack a clear direction and focus that listeners can easily latch onto. But take the good with the bad; the band obviously poured their heart and soul into the record. For those who are interested, give Masterplan’s Metalmorphosis a chance!

Album Tracklist

1. Chase the Light
2. Electric Nights
3. Shadow Man
4. Bound to Fall
5. Pain of Yesterday
6. Metalmorphosis
7. Through the Storm
8. Ghostlight
9. The Call
10. Rise Again

Band Lineup

Rick Altzi – lead vocals
Roland Grapow – guitars
Jari Kainulainen – bass guitar
Kevin Kott – drums
Axel Mackenrott – keyboards

Check out the visualizer for the title track from Masterplan’s Metalmorphosis album!