Bringer of Revenge

Russian power-thrash metal adherents are back with the second part of the story started on “Curse of the Angeleye” which was released 6 years ago. Beginning as the followers of Blind Guardian’s epic style of power metal Alexey Arzamazov and his brigade have developed their sound to extreme mixture of thrash, power and some tunes of melodic death metal. On this record the band shows its maturity and self-confidence. Having lost almost all members since the last release Alexey Arzamazov managed to find new musicians and create friendly atmosphere, making Shadow Host considerably different from other “dictatorship” bands like Annihilator, Running Wild or Megadeth.

The structure of the songs is getting more straight and probably simple on this album. There are less dramatic solos which were typical for older Shadow Host songs. However there appeared more energetic riffs and therefore hooking songs. Introduced by a magic acoustic prologue “The Wicked Curse” makes you heart beat quicker and quicker and by the fourth track (“Forsaken One”) it is rushing along with fierce drums and guitars making you remember the glorious times of early Blind Guardian. “Forsaken One” may seem a ballad from the beginning, however, after several riffs you understand that it’s also a battle hymn… In fact there’s only one track which can be regarded as a ballad – “Beware your dreams”, where we can also hear Alexey Dokhov (“Seducer’s Embrace”) on the guitar. Besides there are several suprising moments, when Keri (“Oblivion Machine”) with female vocals appears.

I would also point out “Back to the Shadowland”, a track which can be regarded as an absolute hit. Although it was written long ago, it sounds kicking ass having absorbed all experience the band got through the past years. If you are tired waiting for new Persuader and Savage Circus, if you are disappointed with recent dull albums by Blind Guardian, try a new work by these Russian guys. And let this story never ends…