Two years back EMERALD, the Heavy / Power Metal band from Switzerland, released an album named "Re-Forged" that reaffirmed the true essence of European melodic Metal to the side of some kick ass intense riffing. Two later, and still signed to Pure Steel Records, EMERALD releases another wild card from their special deck of thrills. EMERALD's sixth album "Unleashed" is their new powerful domain at least for the next couple of years. If you had any hopes for blasting 80s oriented Metal, your wish is their command to follow. Sounds and manifestations of early HELLOWEEN and IRON MAIDEN slither fast through their blood pumped veins with great intensity that converged well along with the keenness that has been spreading through the band's material for quite some time. I would say, after experiencing and breathing this wonderful release, that this is one of the powerful units within their distinguished label.

Though I am a big time sucker for great riffing and melodies, while I can also add some hard kicking solos, I noticed the vocals of Thomas Winkler. On "Re-Forged", but a lot more here on the "Unleashed" album, he revealed himself as one of the greatest gifts in the European scene. A frontman singing with conviction and passion that never seem to diminish, I really hope that he would be able to maintain that same form for a long period of time. As far as the music goes, it swept me off my feet. Such power produced with amazing sound production an profound musical skills is a true asset. For some reason the opening track "Face Of Evil" that this album is bound to be classic straight to the hall of fame. After completing the session with "Wrath Of God", it came very close to my early assumption, a great melodic and heavy release with both eyes to the past and future. It sparked with a barrage of IRON MAIDENish harmonious verses tagging along with speedy melodic bridges that won't shame the good nature of the famous HELLOWEEN / GAMMA RAY star, Kai Hansen.

"Face Of Evil", "F.T.M." that shined with addictive vocal work, "Eye Of The Serpent" that infested evil with sheer heaviness and "Harleking" telling an ancient tale with the right scenery behind it, these are examples of a classic type material. EMERALD once again was able to prove that they are one of the leading forces in the European scene. Their songs are both catchy and easy to comprehend but also constructive with a great feel towards innovative ends when it comes to melody. I salute them for a great release and hope to see more of the same in the future to come.