‘Battle of the Dead’ is the new concept album by the Italian symphonic power metal band. The opening is almost cinematic and very promising. Although the vocals and music are good, the cinematic allure quickly fades.
The English (classically trained) vocals are not entirely understandable. The historical aspects come across better in the beautiful lyric booklet than in the vocals and music. This is because the tempo is at times rousing, which means the sung words don’t quite sink in. Moreover, the contrasts between high and low, loud and subdued, are too subtle, making the tracks less impressive.
The vocal limits are pushed in ‘Who Can Save Us’. In ‘Betrayal’, you can hear emotion in the “scream”.
The balance between the quantity of metal and symphonic elements is spot on. There are also some lovely details, including the keyboard work. There’s a pleasantly rich amount of good bass and guitar playing. Certainly in the fast-paced sections, the drums could have sounded fuller. The cold sound is even a little overpowering at times.
Some sections and twists are fairly predictable, but these are interspersed with brilliant passages. So, despite my criticisms, it’s a strong enough album.
(7/10) (Rockshots Records)
Tracklist:
01 – The battle of the dead – (4:25)
02 – Eversun – (4:20)
03 – The plague – (4:29)
04 – The gathering – (3:24)
05 – Spine – (4:43)
06 – Who can save us – (3:12)
07 – Betrayal – (3:28)
08 – The dark lord – (3:06)
09 – The war – (3:09)
10 – Sacrifice – (3:51)
11 – Desolate lands – (4:52)
Line-up:
Giacomo Rossi: Vocals
Martina Mazzeo: Vocals
Edward de rosa: Guitar
Xavier Rota: Bass
Davide Baldelli: Keys
Michele Olmi: Drums