 |
 |
 |
› Lions Share – Emotional Coma
AFM Records – Out Now
Having heard their original material a long time back I was interested when this CD dropped through my mail box, I was even more interested when I put it in my player and let it rip. It smacks you right in the face from first play. First thought that I had when I had listened to it once through was that it is hard hitting with no fuss over prog elements, just heavy metal played well and executed professionally.
Being a fan of Ronnie James I really loved the Dio-esque vocals from the start, but throughout they just get stronger. Patrik Johansson really delivers a stunning vocal, not just sticking to the obvious power voice he has, he expands and adds some needed gruffness to put a unique stamp on it. My favourite track for an example of this vocal technique is Track seven on the release; “Trafficking” This track is heart poundingly fast paced with sharp edges that cut your eardrums to hell. This track is followed up with the much slower, deeply darker track “Bloodstained Soil” A well placed come down to prepare for the faster, yet still dark themed, “Soultaker” which is a fast beat but with a slow vocal mix that you just have to love with some nifty guitar work thrown in.
Not to say the album doesn’t have a killer opening 6 tracks and final tracks, just that they are my choice of the best section. The opener, for instance, “Cult Of Denial” really sets the record off to a bang, sharp vocals both gruff and clear. Pounding guitars with a heavy war beat, not a subtle start… Perfect for this album! The album has a very distinct finale, much slower and defiantly gives the feel of a final hurrah for the album, a satisfying end to a satisfying CD.
It is a much more refreshing sound to have heavy/power metal that’s not afraid to be dark and heavy, no keyboard work, no niceness. Just plain hard rock that’s to the point and strong as hell, easily navigating complex writing and rhythm with great force to create a hurricane of sound that makes you just need to Headbang. Impressive album, well worth a purchase from any good CD store be it online or on the high street, give this a spin and tell me I’m wrong.
Easy 8/10
Baz
|
|
|