Metal maniacs, rejoice! I am proud to present to you: REFUGE; signed via Frontiers Music Srl, hailing from the glory of Germany - performing Heavy/Power/Speed Metal, on their debut album entitled: "Solitary Men" (released June 8th, 2018).

Since formation in 2014; (originally formed as TRES HOMBRES) the quintet in question have only this here debut album in their entire discography so far, 12 tracks ranging at around 55:41... REFUGE arrange an intricately designed formula of concrete, hard-hitting Heavy/Power/Speed Metal amalgamations. Starting off with the batteringly epic "Summer's Winter" opening up the record with distinguished distinctions that has a grandiose manifestation of meticulous proficiencies; blisteringly bouncy rhythms; fuelled with a hardened aesthetic of crunchy riffs and a solid slab of vocals in which convey brutally executed cleanliness with a hint of rough relentlessness for that raw injection of dirty, filthy Rock/Metal domination - the band are also profusely robust with dynamically diverse varieties of hammering vehemence.

Consisting of Peter "Peavy" Wagner on vocals/bass; the multitasker portrays complexly constructive consistencies of grunty vocalization with a hint of clean, organic substances in the song "The Man In The Ivory Tower". Chugging away with galloping thumpiness; REFUGE demonstrates primitive savagery, as the audible bass culminates with the thunderous melodies from powerhouse drummer Chris Efthimiadis. "Bleeding From Inside" distributes enlightening elements with jumpy contrast and gritty instrumentation that is like a rampaging stampede, frolicking with heavy speed and power. Dextrous guitarist Manni Schmidt efficiently implements catchy creativity in the epic "From The Ashes", which blends with progressively technical adroitness and craftsmanship.

"Living On The Edge Of Time" injects the eardrums with razor-sharp velocity of fluidly polished nimbleness, rapidly swiftting with unprecedented stability and unique tastefulness. "We Owe A Life To Death" explores the electrically remarkable solos with excelling performances, as well as the pulverizing and pummelling sound production qualities which captivate with grabbing hooks and elegance. "Mind Over Matter" establishes original and memorable songwriting skill, expertly providing innovation and malicious persistency for that fascinating yet enjoyable experience. "Let Me Go" flourishes with more relishing presentations of prolific determination, as the band infects the speakers with energizing harmonies and melodious vigour.

"Hell Freeze Over" has a mid-tempo flavour, seemingly satisfied with a supreme malevolent malignance to it - juxtaposed with upbeat orchestration for that effectiveness of capable salubriousness. "Waterfalls" has a more ambient theme; toning down the deadliness a bit while still managing a rocky, borderline foundation of strong hymns at their disposal. The record overall concludes with the excelling finale with "Another Kind Of Madness", and the acoustic version of "The Man In The Ivory Tower" filled with finesse and grandeur - completing the record. Bottom line; I was very surprised with this discovery, REFUGE certainly outdone themselves with this being their 1st record and I admirably commend them for such a feat – definitely worth investigating, for all Rock/Metal fans alike.<