Salvation
Stormhold
Metal maniacs, rejoice! I'm proud to present to you: STORMHOLD; signed via Pure Steel Records, hailing from Sweden - performing Heavy/Power Metal, on their 2nd album entitled: "Salvation" (released December 28th, 2017).
Since formation in 2008; the quintet in question have 1 album behind them, as well as an EP and a Demo in their entire catalogue so far - I'm introduced to their 2nd record: "Salvation". Incorporating a solid slab of hard-hitting Heavy/Power Metal arrangements, the quartet deliver a distinctive development of intricately designed concoctions and an organic formula of profusely robust aesthetics. 9 tracks ranging at around 43:83; STORMHOLD contribute a distinguishable amount of unique elements including galloping grooves, and rhythmic instrumentation. "Heart Of A Hero" begins, and the melodic structure is executed with concrete diligence while being captivatingly engaging with its blistering riffs and thunderous solos – amalgamated with an atmospheric, medieval setting. "Black Death" portrayed a pulverizing attribution that contrasted with a succulent, groovy beat that was utmost relentlessly invigorating.
Consisting of Filip Peterson on lead vocals; the frontman showcases a complex diversity in which variates from mid-tempo grit to high-pitched screams, it's a nice balance and showcases a punchline foundation to it. "The Stranger" consistently implements those enlightening harmonic melodies from dextrous guitarists Jakob Morhed & Jonas Nilsson who supply an elegantly epic acoustic segment, until more crushing components pound the sound production with more nimble and swift excitement. "Exile" establishes circular and energetic power and thumping drum pummelling from Robin Hermansson, efficiently dominating with proficient songwriting adroitness and excelling performances - ending the song with an exquisitely rapid solo that melts faces gracefully. "Path Of No Return" brings back the acoustic characteristics which is the main quirk for this one, it's a fulfilling track and is well maintained with unprecedented yet technical progress.
"Gods Crusade" generates adequately orchestrated galloping which grooves with twin guitar rhythmic riffs, including a hasty solo which coherently composes an adrenaline fuelled harmony which is utmost persistently stimulating. "Edge Of The World" opens with more constructive bass expertise from Jan Ekberg, until more hammering diligence pounds with excelling prominence - there is a lot of rocking mechanisms that are quite enjoyable here. "We March" arranges similar developments, with more bass stability that is very clear, and more detailed craftsmanship that shows off the musicianship's concise inventiveness. Overall concluding "Salvation" with the epic "We'll Never Fall" which delivered a substantial amount of dramatic salubriousness, this was a fascinating record which exceeded all expectations and provided a concrete listen – certainly one worth listening to.
8 / 10
Excellent
Songwriting
Musicianship
Memorability
Production
"Salvation" Track-listing:
1. Heart Of A Hero
2. Black Death
3. The Stranger
4. Exile
5. Path Of No Return
6. Gods Crusade
7. Edge Of The World
8. We March
9. We'll Never Fall
Stormhold Lineup:
Filip Peterson - Lead Vocals
Jakob Morhed - Guitar, Chorus
Jonas Nilsson - Guitar, Chorus
Jan Ekberg - Bass, Chorus
Robin Hermansson - Drums
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