Мания величия

Maybe so... there really wasn't much from America that sounded like this in 1985. Maybe the first Fates Warning album, and some Virgin Steele perhaps.

This is Aria's first album - sometimes it sounds more like a slightly slowed down Judas Priest "Defenders of the Faith" more than anything else. The pounding riffs are definitely there (just listen to Torero, and imagine it sped up 40 per cent, and you've got Freewheel Burning right there.) Yes, the Iron Maiden influence is definitely there, not quite as heavily as in later albums, but quite prominent.

The choruses on this album are very much memorable, and Valeri Kipelov's vocals are in fine form. Also, the duelling guitars, while not as prominent in some of their later albums, are definitely used quite nicely in places. Also, some very nice riff work to be found.

The best tracks... we start well with "Torero" and "This is Doom" (it's not, it's speed metal), the first two songs. "Tusks of Black Rock" is also pretty nice, with a very cool melodic intro. But the highlight... the chorus of "Volunteer" is just fucking epic, and so is the rest of the song.

Also, I must mention "America is Behind", I'll bet the Commie leaders liked that one! WE WILL BURY YOU!

Yes, Aria is pretty damn consistent, and pretty damn good. This one is worth getting.