Astral Empire

DragonForce's 'Astral Empire' is a high-octane, power metal anthem that delves into themes of war, destiny, and ultimate triumph. The song opens with vivid imagery of war and chaos, setting the stage for a narrative that spans centuries. The lyrics speak of an evil force spreading disease and fear, and a leader rising to guide his people through these dark times. This leader, depicted as a bringer of fire and a harbinger of destiny, rallies his army to crush their endless foes, symbolizing the eternal struggle between good and evil.

The chorus of the song is a call to arms, urging warriors to fly far away through the raging storm and break the chains of oppression. The 'astral empire' mentioned in the lyrics represents a higher plane of existence or a utopian realm that can only be reached through perseverance and bravery. The imagery of steel crushing steel and fire descending from the sky evokes a sense of epic battles and heroic deeds, reinforcing the song's overarching theme of fighting against insurmountable odds to achieve freedom.

As the song progresses, it delves deeper into the psyche of the warriors, exploring themes of dark knowledge and inner voices. The lyrics suggest that the warriors have gained a deeper understanding of their enemy and their own destiny, making them more formidable in battle. The repeated refrain of 'now is the hour to decide' emphasizes the critical moment of choice and action, urging the warriors to seize their destiny. The song concludes with a triumphant declaration that the war shall be won, encapsulating the spirit of resilience and victory that defines DragonForce's music.