In its 30 years of life, Groove Metal and its related musical genres gave to Metal some great names (and others that aren't up to a mention). But the genre itself seems to be evolving even more, changing and refreshing some of its features for young Metal fans. And that's good, for it's a sign of life. And let me tell you: the quintet EYES OF THE RAVEN shows a very good musical work on "Crown of Serpents".

We could say that their way to play Groove Metal is particular, using many different musical influences to build a form of music, influenced by names as STONE SOUR (that gives them some musical accessibility), ORANGE GOBLIN and BLACK LABEL SOCIETY. They show a good musical technique, along fine melodies and a hooking and abrasive sense. It's good, and shows personality! On the sound production, all works as a greasy machine: the sonority is not as abrasive as many modern Metal bands prefer to use. It's clear and extremely heavy, and the choice for each musical instrument was done in a very wise way, to keep their music clean to be understood, but aggressive and heavy.

Six very good songs are presented here. But the heavy overdose of weight and aggressiveness shown on "Black Sun Rising" (that bears good melodies as well), the modern rhythm of "Crown of Serpents" (where the accessible touch is more evident, and it has very good guitars as well), and the charming and powerful aggressive melodies of "I Endure" can be named as their best moments. And if you want something more musical accessible, hear "What Binds Us", because it's really hooking.

EYES OF THE RAVEN is good band, and I hope they can come with a new album as soon as possible.