Time to Be King is the fourth studio album by the multinational power metal band Masterplan. It is their third album with original singer Jørn Lande, the first since his original departure in 2006, and the last before his final departure in 2012. He left the band in 2006 for the first time, citing musical differences as the reason.
The album was originally planned to be released on 16 April 2010 but during a listening session in Hamburg it was confirmed that the release date was pushed back to 21 May. Lead singer Jørn Lande had a major contribution to the songwriting; he wrote some of the music and all the lyrics for the songs. Also keyboardist Axel Mackenrott took part as one of the main songwriters and brought the ideas for songs like Time to Be King and Blue Europa. Roland Grapow said Axel is now "totally filling the shoes of Uli (Kusch) and he has a very familiar style of writing that I love so much and it’s very important for the band."
Jørn Lande recorded a slightly different version of the title track for his 2012 solo album, Bring Heavy Rock to the Land.
The band had some problems touring during the time the album was released due to some of the band members' other commitments. This resulted in the departure of bass player Jan S. Eckert, drummer Mike Terrana and once again singer Jørn Lande from the band.
Contents
Track listing
All music written by Roland Grapow, Jørn Lande & Axel Mackenrott, except where noted. All lyrics by Jørn Lande.
Line-up
Jørn Lande – vocals
Roland Grapow – guitar
Jan S. Eckert – bass, backing vocals
Mike Terrana – drums
Axel Mackenrott – keyboards
Technical personnel
Produced by Roland Grapow
Recorded by Roland Grapow at Grapow Studios (SVK)
Mixed & Mastered by Mikko Karmila, Roland Grapow & Mika Jussila at Finnvox Studio, Helsinki (FIN)
Bandphotos by Sight of Sound
Artwork & Design by Hiko
Original crown designed by Jose Mesa "Mataparda".