This Chicago-based band plays a fairly straightforward version of classic rock that leans towards power, though the opening track has more of an edge similar to Iced Earth. It's hooky in the manner of the 80's heyday of metal worked off. before losing its way in the 90s. They carry the heft of thrash without having to build speed. 'Aquarius Betrayed" is driven by what feels more like a pumped-up rock riff, before the palm-muted chugs. It's an intersting juxtaposition of sounds as I can also hear some Dokken influence in the guitar playing. They punch in harder in on the chorus, which does not work as well as their approach of the opening track, but they are melodic and dynamic enough to compensate. Midway into the song, they find their groove.
"Above Soil Beneath Sky" feels like a more modern approach to power metal. This places a great deal of weight on the vocal melodies, which find their singer always trying but not really nailing all the hooks. If you are into guitar solos they have them, and they are pretty catchy. They are dynamic songwriters, so that is in their favor. The common problem with power metal is anthemic does not equate to hooky. "Giving Up the Ghost " has a cool deliberate riff that I have high hopes for. The vocals work well with the riff, and that is all I am asking for here. The chorus is more fluid, proving my previous point.
They continue to prove themselves to be darker than your average power metal band, which is not a high bar, but what they are doing works, until they lean too far into the more rock n roll side. The bass leads into "Silent Wars," and the guitar falls in behind it in a more Ratt-like manner. Though you could also compare it to Ozzy. The chorus works for what they are doing but places them solidly in the 80s revival feel. "When Prophecy Fails" races along in a manner that doesn't resonate as much with me. They set up the last song to be a power ballad. I will give this album a 9, the yare solid muscians doing better than what most bands in this genre are doing , so if you want darker power metal with balls this is for you.
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