Kotipelto is the brainchild of a vocalist/songwriter Timo Kotipelto, best known as the frontman for the popular Finnish metal outfit Stratovarius. Kotipelto specializes in majestic/melodic Euro-power metal in the Iron Maiden tradition, with lyrics often centering on ancient Egyptian themes. Kotipelto's first release, Waiting for the Dawn, came out in 2002 via Century Media in the United States during a hiatus in activity for Stratovarius. The album featured an all-star lineup of progressive/power metal musicians, including bassist Jari Kainulainen (Stratovarius); guitarists Mi...