I always found Sonata Arctica... cute. It's that special something something you feel for no apparent reason. I was turned off for the same reason as you lot, though - admittedly, I *did* like Ecliptica, 'cause of a few songs. Alas, the genericness of their music turned me away from Sonata.
Until, at least, this new album. I've opened a topic under Other bands, but don't bother going there or something. *profoundly stirred*
They pulled a Blind Guardian on the music industry - Guardian was generic speed power for the first two albums, when they started to evolve and create their own distinct, slightly proggish sound (as heard on their latest A Twist in the Myth). Sonata now did the same - I think they're searching for themselves right now. The albums so far were just a warm-up exercise, I guess.
Anywayz, I gave my answer in the first sentence - I find them cute
That something something. Now, with their newfound approach to power (or bizzaro power, as I like to call it), they're something more than just 'that cute band'.
...
Don't laugh at my usage of the word 'cute', or I shall smite thee with my mighty blade.