To be different from the other bands that came before you, and from those that are living in the same time as your band, is the main idea that bands from the 70s, 80s and 90s had to do to become great. The recipe of success that many had, and this recipe still remains true, is to be different, or be gone. Just like that. But while all the trends of bands trying to emulate the past can reek, we can find some very good works, when a band that is trying to have an old school approach, but with a modern insight and recording quality. But the old school ways still have trials, and some bands can fall into that trap. The German quartet BLIZZEN is really good, as their album "Genesis Reversed" shows good ideas, but they need some improvements as soon as possible.

The musicians are talented, their way into Heavy/Power Metal is truly interesting, reminding me of something from NWOBHM and the earlier works from German bands as ACCEPT and HELLOWEEN. But even having an energetic and heavy work, with some very good choruses, they need to put more of them into the songs, because we feel some strong clichés appearing here and there. These need to be thrown out as soon as possible. The sound quality is really good. The band sounds loud, heavy and clear, using very good tuning on each musical instrument. From this aspect, the album's songs are ok, but could be a little more aggressive in some moments.

"Anthem to a Distant Star" shows a very good and melodic work on the guitars and a fine chorus. The same elements can be found on "Masters of Lightning" (that is a bit faster, but keeping the melodies undamaged) and "The Beast is on Your Back" (that shows a little dose of musical aggressiveness on some guitar parts, what turns the song more energetic), the good tempos show due the good work from bass guitar and drums on "Genesis Reversed," the melodies of vocals and backing vocals on "Gone Wild," and once more very good rhythmic work and fine vocals on "Bestride the Thunder." These can be presented as their best moments, but they need really to improve a bit more, to find a way to turn their full potential out of their hearts and souls, and to throw it into music. However, as "Heaven Reversed" is their first album, they are a good promise for a near future. I truly believe in their work.