iDentity

I think most unbiased readers will agree that the power metal scene is far from thriving these days, with most acts (old and new) doing little more than recycling worn out formulas to satisfy persevering fans. I don't think it's a sin, you know, but I for one am always looking for some new (or at least renewed) metal to inject into my veins, so I must say that such a lack of innovative ideas is very frustrating. Fortunately, there are always exceptions to every rule, and some bands seems to be more driven than others to move against the tide. I wouldn't say that Alpha Tiger is the most unique metal proposition doing the rounds today (far from that, actually), but they show a genuine passion for heavy music and are slowly creating their own musical identity with every record.

In fact, naming this CD as "iDentity" is quite an apt choice, as such a title portrays not only everyone's everyday battle against standardizing conformity (pretty much the main lyrical subject here), but also the efforts from these German musicians to find their own path, without taking the easy road of simply doing what everyone else does. Their brand of heavy music mixes typical European power metal with more traditional influences and even some welcomed tinges of hard rock, producing songs that are both catchy and emotionally intense - all this without ever impairing the 'metal' predicate within their music. Alpha Tiger was never about being fast and furious, so don't go for it expecting some speed metal galore in a Helloween ("Walls of Jericho") or Gamma Ray vein. Instead, they craft heavy songs with generous breathing spaces, giving the listener a wide palette of emotions to deal with.

The strong opener "Lady Liberty" is almost breathtaking, with a captivating drive and excellent vocal performance. Actually, I'm sure I'll never be able to sing "LADY LIBERTEEEEEEE" as high-pitched as Stephan Dietrich does, but I can't help jokingly trying every single time I listen to it! Similarly, songs like "We Won't Take it Anymore", "Identity" (with a slightly melancholic chorus that really works to great effect), "Revolution in Progress" and "Scripted Reality" are all nicely done and with heartwarming signs of adventurous spirit in places.

I would not say Alpha Tiger already reached their prime, as I think they can still improve and do even better in the future - let's face it, we're not exactly dealing with an award-winning showcase of sheer originality here. But I'm sure they already show a healthy (wait for it) identity of their own, which is already an achievement in a world like this, being part of a metal scene like this. Well done, lads. One for those who value personality - in life, in music and in your record collection.

-originally published at drequon.blogspot.com