In 1996 there was a group of Mexican patriots from Mexico City that decided to come together and start a Heavy Metal band. That is how AGORA came to life. Now, some 27 years later, they are letting the world know that they still are alive and active. The result of this is their sixth full length album, titled "Empire". And I for one am glad to be able and allowed to review this album for the readers of METAL TEMPLE.

First off, let's try and describe the kind of music that AGORA is producing on this album. Well, that's rather simple, this is pure and unadulterated Melodic Rock/Metal. What makes this even more enjoyable is the fact that the band is not stuck in the twentieth century, but that they have adopted a sound that is very much up to date and certainly of this day and age. It makes listening to "Empire" such a lot easier. If I say that I would not have been surprised if FRONTIERS Music Srl would have picked this up and released it, at least for the European market. That just shows where AGORA is heading. But it has to be said, CRUSADER RECORDS have done an excellent job on this release.

So, now it comes to the quality of the songs that are filling "Empire". Let's just say that with over 51 minutes of listening, you have enough material to put your teeth into. First off, the sound is crisp, clear and heavy all in one. And, as AGORA isn't afraid to use Power Metal or even short Thrashy passages when playing their music, you do understand that this never gets lame, or boring. No, by using those influences the band is keeping you on your toes, making sure your mind stays sharp. So, to put it bluntly, there is nought wrong with the quality of the songs. Neither can one fault the execution of those tunes. These guys know how to play, and how to play as a unit, making "Empire" a very coherent record.

What AGORA also does to make sure you can't put another tag on "Empire" than Melodic Metal/Rock is to keep all the vocals very Melodic. Solo as well as in harmony, there is no doubt that such is the direction in which AGORA operates. So, if you are in favour of listening to Melodic Rock and/or Metal music, you can listen to this without fear. Unless you prefer the sound of the eighties, and you are afraid of heavier parts and passages. Then you had better put on your safety harness before giving AGORA in general and "Empire" specifically a listen.