The First
Amulet
•
October 14, 2014
Glancing at the name of this band, Power Metal immediately came to mind, it just seemed like such a Power Metal-ish name, but this band are one of those traditional metal bands, a band that reminds you of the classics like DIAMOND HEAD and ANGEL WITCH. It's the NWOBHM band, AMULET.
They're still a relatively new band, forming in 2010 in London, followed by their first release, a demo, entitled "Cut the Crap" in 2011. Now, we are blessed with their first, full length album, "The First" released on Century Media; an impressive achievement to be only 4 years old and already on a well-known record label.
Listening to this album reminds me of ANGEL WITCH's 1980 album "Angel Witch", being one of the most well-known, and popular NWOBHM albums to date. So, if this band reminds you of such a classic album, then boy, do these guys have a bright future ahead of them? Yes, yes they do. And, they're obviously influenced by your classic Metal heroes, MAIDEN, SABBATH, PRIEST; no surprise there.
This album is straight forward, no nonsense Heavy Metal, with 13 great tracks, which may be short in duration, but leaves a long last impression. Although, not every song holds the same strengths and heaviness as tracks like "Evil Cathedral" and "Bloody Night", which goes to further prove that all great albums have they're weaker songs. Tracks like the instrumental "The Flight" which is this very 80s styled synth track; I guess we've found the albums resting point, like every album should have to give the listener a rest from the overall sound of the album.
Overall, this album really holds up and is another great addition to the world of Heavy Metal, and I highly recommend keeping an eye on these guys, if you're a fan of the greats like SAXON and DIAMOND HEAD. I know I will.
9 / 10
Almost Perfect
"The First" Track-listing:
1. Evil Cathedral
2. Glint of the Knife
3. The Gauntlet
4. Bloody Night
5. Heathen Castle
6. The Flight
7. Talisman
8. The Sacrifice
9. Mark of Evil
10. Wicked 'n Cruel
11. Black Candle
12. Trip Forever
13. Nightmare
Amulet Lineup:
Jamie Elton - Vocals
Heathen Steven - Guitar
Nippy Blackford - Guitar
Bill Dozer - Bass
Dave Sherwood - Drums
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