Power/progressive metal group Hammerforce are another that sure do like lively metal and their keyboards, which is no bad thing and they do have a place in their dynamic memorable songs. Hammerforce originated in 2006 formed by Nikita Merzlyakov and Ilya Kapralov and their debut Dice was then out in 2009. Moving forward in time and this Russian group now have a second album Access Denied with a new vocalist Dmitriy "Ian Breeg" Yanovskiy.
Hammerforce have made this album available in two versions with the option of either English or Russian vocals which should please the fans from their homeland. I did also take the time to listen to the Russian version and it actually sounds pretty cool even with my lack of translation skills. As for the subject matter "the lyrics on "Access Denied"were devoted to modern social problems", and keyboardist Nikita Merzlyakov took on the production, recording, mix and mastering to allow the nine songs on Access Denied to sound just the way they intended.
The synth metal of Hammerforce reveals itself on "I Am I" an energetic tune where the keyboards don't take a back seat and are used to very cool effect. The double kicks are flowing on "Templates For All" and "Wasted" hooks you from the start with that addictive guitar melody. "Mass Media" sees the King Diamond style high pitched vocals make an appearance showing their vocalists diversity. "Earth Is On trial" is a strong number thanks to Hammerforce's exciting musicianship and "Access Denied" is another of the many on here for the synth fans with some seriously fast drumming in the chorus.
The keyboard style of Access Denied helps to differentiate this group for the countless others and the rest of the band are impressive also, this new album is certainly worth a look.
Track Listing
1. I Am I
2. Templates For All
3. Wasted
4. Mass Media
5. Fugitive
6. Earth Is On Trial
7. No Place For The Old Men
8. Reflections
9. Access Denied
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