French power metal band DARKTRIBE have been beloved among the progpower community for some time, despite being much more "power" than "prog" and relatively ignored by the power metal community.  Many complain that power metal is stuck in the past, refusing to grow up and all bands are still stuck sounding like a version of STATOVARIUS and RHAPSODY. I would say, if ain't broke, don't fix it!

But that isn't the case with "Voici L'Homme" the third album from the band after 2015's "The Modern Age". While the style is nothing new, most will recognize them as typical European power metal but those who take the time to give them a second or third listen will hear a very mature and powerful band coming into their own. While they aren't getting overly complicated with odd time signatures, fast key changes, unorthodox harmonies and creative rhythm choices give them just the tinge of prog that can make them appealing to a more mainstream metal audiences while rewarding those that give them a listen.

The tracks are catchy without being overly technical and the sound is definitely in your face and ballsy. Though, it can sometimes feel like sensory overload at times. "Prism of Memory" shows the contrast in the different between when just the bass and vocalists are heard compared to as the build amps up into the chorus. The kicks are thundering fast sixteenth notes, layers of guitars on top of it with the vocalist belting out in the high range can be both hypnotic and overpowering as to the listener away as if they have reached the fabled Viking kingdom of Valhalla. Then when the blistering attack of the guitar solo later on takes it over the top as if you are soaring above it, laughing at Odin.

A personal favorite is the title track "Voici L'Homme" with its chorus both in English and French. The synths could be further forward in the mix as they tend to get buried by the effects-laden guitars. But they are brought up later in the song in a beautiful counterpoint to the guitar so it is forgiven. The "Woah" section of the outro overtop the warm arpeggios of the guitars, the drums blasting on and the perfect chunky bass guitar tone unheard in most metal music ends the cornerstone of the album.

This a glowing example of an amazing power metal band that has matured much in only three albums. This album is an incredible feat, solid production - despite being overwhelming for some, possibly - and jaw-dropping musicianship. Hats off especially to both the vocalist, Anthony Agnello for commendable pipes and guitarist Loic Manuello for some truly intriguing leads and melodic choice overall.