Pick of the month:
IRON LUNG - "Sexless/No Sex"
The idea of power metal is so promising. There's something irresistible about bands with enchanting names, logos blazing in polished steel, songs spinning epic fantasy yarns of brutal battles, hexes, and ghastly beasts via crackling, driving riffs and commanding musicianship. But so many countless mediocre-to-poor albums have been cast in this mold throughout the globe, many jaded metal fans would rather dry-shave their genitalia than sit through another generic power metal album. It's sad, but true.
Sweden's long-running metal men OVERDRIVE made quite a splash in the 80s with notable, guitar-driven platters like 1984's "Swords and Axes", a somewhat legendary release among fans and collectors due to it's NWOBHM-sodden hooks and Shrapnel-esque prowess from guitarist Janne Stark (also of LOCOMOTIVE BREATH). After twenty or so years of dormancy, Stark and crew revived the OVERDRIVE moniker, sticking their toe in reunion waters with 2006's "Resurrected" and now plunging headlong into full-length territory with "Let the Metal Do the Talking".
Thankfully, OVERDRIVE hasn't lost their touch. The sound is reminiscent of "Swords and Axes", but the guitars are beefier, riffs are hard-panned and crunchy, and vocalist Per Karlsson buries former singer Pelle Thuresson in terms of range and charisma, (recalling former Malmsteen frontman Jeff Scott Soto in spots). The disc is chock full of great riffs, memorable choruses and wild guitar antics in cuts like "Fight to the Finish", "Sinister Warfare", and "Army of Darkness". Stark demonstrates his musical dexterity with fervor, walking the fine line between virtuosity and entertainment without crossing into self-indulgence. Even the 8+ minute closer "Reincarnation" keeps the listener riveted with Schenker-esque guitar howls, strong vocal harmonies, and riffs galore. "Let The Metal Do The Talking" is a winning purchase for any fan of classic metal. Crown Sir Stark's head with a laurel; he's done it again.
OFFICIAL SITE: www.overdrive.se
RELATED ITEMS: OVERDRIVE - "Resurrected", 2006
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