Greek power metal act Firewind are back again with The Premonition, a very strong follow-up to their equally impressive Allegiance release. The band's second album with singer Apollo Papathanasio takes up right where they left off last, as they launch into the crushing "Into the Fire" and nine other melodic metal gems that reek with virtuoso guitar work, symphonic keys, and stellar vocals. Gus G. continues making a name for himself as a premier guitar hero, getting involved in blistering exchanges with keyboard player Bob Katsionis on the catchy "Head Up High", laying down some truly tasty Celtic styled licks on "Mercenary Man" (just hear the Gary Moore/Phil Lynott influence on this one), and pounding out massive waves of riff-o-rama on the juggernaut "Remembered". This guy can flat out play, but the great thing about this current incarnation of the band is that it is truly a band effort all around. Katsionis turns "Angels Forgive Me" into a real progressive metal workout, and the rhythm team of bassist Petros Christo & drummer Mark Cross really lock into some intense grooves on the chunky melodic rocker "The Silent Code". Of course, the commanding vocal presence of Apollo infiltrates songs like the proggy "My Loneliness" and "Life Foreclosed" with plenty of passion as well as snarl, showing a singer who has quite a bit in his arsenal. Of course, it's certainly up for debate on whether it was a good idea to do a cover of the 80's pop hit "Maniac", but the band really makes the song their own here and give it a heavy twist, complete with a ripping Gus G. guitar solo.
Firewind have tapped into a formula that seems like a 'can't miss' in todays power metal circles. Great production, outstanding musicianship, top notch vocals, memorable melodies, it's all here and then some. With a second US tour on tap supporting Arch Enemy & Dark Tranquility, 2008 looks to be quite promising for this talented band.
Track Listing
1. Into the Fire 6:31
2. Head Up High 3:48
3. Mercenary Man 3:30
4. Angels Forgive Me 4:59
5. Remembered 3:40
6. My Loneliness 4:06
7. Circle Of Life 4:16
8. The Silent Code 4:50
9. Maniac 4:57
10. Life Foreclosed 4:52
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