This review could easily end up to the conclusion that another Hammerfall 'clone' has stepped into the 'current' European Power Metal scene. Still, there's a certain distinction in this bunch of metalheads that differentiates them from the average 'happy' wanna-be 'melodic' Metal band around. And this is...guts.
For anyone who is familiar with the deeds of a Swedish band called Eternia (I am not), it is essential to state that Destynation (based in the city of Ornskoldsvik) did rise from their ashes. Eternia released a bunch of albums in the late 90's/early 00's in the vain - as described - of Viking influenced Power Metal. Anyway, as Destynation, the band breathes life for a little bit more than a year, having recorded a set of Demo tracks which received rave reviews everywhere (Rockradio.se voted the band #3 at their Top Chart). Signing a worldwide deal with Greece's premier label Sonic Age Records, the band entered Studio Madness in late 2005 to begin the recordings for the Rising Up debut. Well, here it is.
To be powerful in your Euro Power Metal music would be - common sense - out of further 'research'. Still, witnessing so many bands that label themselves under the specific genre, simply playing 'happy' monotonous pop music - with just a powerful production - brings tons of hypothesis 'bout a band's scope/ideals. This is the case for Destynation! Even if performing in the secure 'field' of European 'polished' Heavy Metal, they succeed in delivering a great taste of how melody should be combined with the basic - musically speaking - elements of Heavy Metal instrumentation.
In detail: Guitarist Ronny Blylod has done a great job in terms of production. A crystal clear sound, a proper sonic performance in all instruments and - in addition - a 'fair' final mix brings in front all the basic advantages of this band. As for the musicians: great vocal lines from Haggkvist, 'fresh' yet reliable, they brightly guide Destynation's music. The Blylod/Niemann guitar duo's riff work is fine yet typical, while the solo stuff is supreme and lays a lot on the classic Metal standards. As for the rhythm section, enough double bass drumming 'united' with an excellent bass performance carry the essentials for a great backup system in the band.
To the creations: the album will be immediately adored by all fans of bands like Hammerfall, Dream Evil, Narnia and Nocturnal Rites. Lovers of Swedish 'metallisque' Hard Rock or the Edguy sound will also find Rising Up an excellent purchase. The hard rockin' melody of Freedom, the in-your-face 'air' of Rising Up (check out the video on the band's official website!) and the Power Metal supremacy of Threshold Of Pain stand up as fair representatives of this album's value. Certain notice should be given to the lyrical part, since Haggkvist's harmonic melancholy (most of the times) may end up somehow boring for some. Also, skip him if you do not like Joacim Cans' voice at all.
Nothing is groundbreaking in this album, and I'm sure the band did not have such an intention. And that's the fact about 'guts' as previously mentioned. Destynation play music that comes deep from the heart - not a major European label 'product' - and Rising Up is definitely the first choice for lovers of melodic Metal sound, done the 'proper' way. I'm convinced the band's sophomore album will judge whether they're ready for the big break or not, still this does not mean you shouldn't enjoy Rising Up's dynamics.