REVIEW: SKYLARK - In The Heart Of The Princess (A Neverending Story - 1995/2005)

 

SKYLARK - In The Heart Of The Princess (A Neverending Story - 1995/2005)

Scarlet Records

Skylark’s “In The Heart Of The Princess (A Neverending Story – 1995/2005)” is a 2-CD compilation released in 2005 to mark the band’s ten-year anniversary. Based in Italy, Skylark built a name for themselves in the European power metal scene with a sound that combines melodic themes, symphonic elements, and fantasy-oriented lyrics.

This release brings together 26 tracks from the band’s first decade, including remastered versions of well-known songs and two previously unreleased pieces, “Last Battle” and “Mt. Fuji.” The track selection was based on votes from fans in Japan, where Skylark has consistently enjoyed strong support. As a result, the compilation reflects some of the band’s most appreciated material, particularly from the perspective of their international audience.

The music stays true to the group’s early style: a mix of keyboard-driven melodies, high-pitched vocals, and narrative lyrics often centered on mythical or emotional themes. Songs like “Why Did You Kill The Princess?” and “Fear of the Moon” give a good sense of the band’s approach, blending theatrical elements with accessible songwriting.

Physically, the album comes in a digipak format with fantasy-style cover art and a booklet containing notes about the tracks and the band’s history. While it doesn’t introduce new directions or experiment with the formula, it serves as a useful overview of Skylark’s work from 1995 to 2005.

“In The Heart Of The Princess” is aimed primarily at existing fans, offering a way to revisit the band’s early years in one collection. It may also appeal to new listeners who want an entry point into Skylark’s discography, especially those with an interest in European power metal of the late ’90s and early 2000s.

Nick Parastatidis