Firewind - The Premonition |
Published March 26 2008
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Into The Fire* |
| Genre | Power/Speed Metal |
Apollo Papathanasio
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Vocals
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| Tracks | 10 |
Gus G.
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Guitar
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| Runningtime | 45 Min. |
Bob Katsionis
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Guitar
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| Label | Century Media |
Petros Christo
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Bass
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| Release | 25 March 2008 |
Mark Cross
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Drums
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| Country | USA |
Bob Katsionis
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Keyboard
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| Similar artists | Stratovarius, Axel Rudi Pell, Astral Doors | ||
Burning earth, scorching the wind with fire and fury,
ready to strike, here they are again, the masters of the revolution.
This is the articulate cry of Into The Fire with its allegiance to Metallica.
This opening track sets the passionate pace for a solid Power Metal
magnum opus. Having garnered avid success from their uncompromising
endeavor - Allegiance, including an American Tour with Henning Basse
from Metalium filling in as vocalist; before the storm, Firewind reign
through The Premonition. I've always endorsed Firewind, but they were
never my top priority. All this has been drastically altered by The
Premonition, and I heed the call.
I was honored to converse with Gus G. when I witnessed Firewind open
for Edguy, last autumn. I was surprised to realize that he was not your
sterotyped "Guitar God", but thankfully a very cordial individual,
who was willing to just sit and chat. His approachable and genial nature
allowed me the opportunity to befriend such an awesome icon of mettle.
I prefer his work with Dream Evil, but after discerning The Premonition,
I understand why this warrior has opted to make this band his main focus
and healing tool.
I strongly agree with Bill Peters of Auburn Records. He has consistently
been playing new Firewind in heavy rotation on his "Metal On Metal"
Radio program every Friday on http://www.wjcu.org. He qualifies that
Firewind have really stepped up on this new recording with better songwriting,
and more inspired melodies. We both count new Firewind as our favorite
release, this year, so far. I first heard The Premonition on Bill's
show in early February, and I instantly became enthralled, seeking out,
and securing my own advanced copy to review.
Like Stratovarius at the pinnacle of their success, nigh a decade ago;
Firewind blend strong musicianship from an all-star line-up of metal's
elite, with powerful lyrical inspiration. Each member serves the system
through his own artistic expertise. The lyrics are endearing, honest,
and sincere. I'm animated by such provocations of wisdom and wile. Songs
like Circle Of Life, Head Up High, and especially Remembered, speak
to my heart: "Do the things you want to do, let the spirit guide
you through...forgive/forget...never hate...". The substance of
Power Metal is that it evokes sentiments of enthusiasm and reverent
contemplation. Firewind embrace her virtues with fervor and glorious
intent.
Apollo Papathanasio's eloquent pronunciation and vocal delivery enhances
the musical experience. Whether he channels Dio somewhere between Heaven
And Hell, or reminds me of Jørn Lande or Nils Patrik Johansson
from Astral Doors, his somber innocence penetrates the atmosphere through
his attentuated vocal cadence .
Dreamchaser Kostas Karamitroudis (Gus G.) has the potential to be the
next Lars Yngwie Johann Lannerbach Malmsteen or Axel Rudi Pell. Like
Timo Tolkki, he spiritually harnesses the power and majesty to incorporate
aggressive axe splitting rhythms, with classical orchestrations. He
has essentially formulated and forged his own recognizable style. Bassist
Petros Christos shadows his icon Phil Lynott as Mercenary Man exudes
a fondness for Thin Lizzy and Gary Moore. Keyboardist Bob Katsionis'
signature sting, brings a blessed balance to the overall intensity.
The cover of Michael Sembelo's Maniac from Flashdance is an exceptional
argument for this approach. Sigma from Italy also attempted this cover
on their 2000 self-titled release, but Firewind's rendition is an amazing
highlight. Choosing to conclude the CD with Life Forclosed is truly
apropos, both in song structure and sonic timing.
There are really no weak or filler cuts on the album. There are no commercially
oriented anthems, or even female vocals. My Loneliness is the closest
there is to a power ballad. Firewind are breaking the silent code of
ethics with incredible guitar work and metallic arrangements. With The
Premonition fulfilled, this fantastic fates warning signifies pure metal
providence and a sublime ascension. Firewind chime to their celestial
destination forevermore; till the end of time. Gus and his fellow Greek
brethren are perpetually raging, hold their heads up high, secure in
the knowledge that they have mastered a masterpiece.
See
also review of: Immortals
, Forged
By Fire
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Performance
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Originality
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Production
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Vocals
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Songwriting
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8,5 |
7,5 |
8,5 |
7,5 |
8,5 |
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Summary
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8,5 chalices of 10 - Michael the MettleAngel |
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