PROMETHIUM started life in Lancaster/Morecambe in Lancashire, England in 2007, so have been around for some 16 years already. Originally, they took their influences from bands like METALLICA, MEGADETH, PANTERA and BLACK SABBATH. It resulted in four rather intense and hefty, but still Melodic, full-length albums and two EPs throughout the years. Now, some three years after starting work on it, the band have released "Bleeding The Ghost". And yes, they have made changes since their latest album, "Revisions", which was released in 2019.

Two people left the band. First off it was vocalist Steve Graham, who has been replaced by singer James Candlin. This is a change for him, as PROMETHIUM is the first Metal band he has joined. I have to admit that he is a real find, as he blends in seamlessly, as if he's done this all his life. The other change in personnel is that long-term member and guitarist Rossi left, to be replaced by the only candidate deemed worthy, namely Andy Haworth. The most significant change, though, is in the musical direction they have taken. The emphasis is still Heavy Metal with melodic twists, but the latter have become much more important. The Melodic voice of James surely helps in that respect. Especially when they dare to go slow, like on the power ballad "Manhattan", that's when you hear how much in control of their music the band is. Heavy, Melodic, subtle and mesmerizing.

I can only say that from the very first listen I have been pleasantly surprised by the quality of the songs and the sound. The guys in PROMETHIUM do know how to let each other breathe whilst sounding as tight as a duck's arse. As I can't play an instrument to save my life, and surely don't know how to write music, I am always amazed when a band comes out with tunes that sound familiar, but have their own essence, their own personality and identity. Well, "Bleeding The Ghost" is filled with songs that have all that and more. It's a like good house makes you feel at home. The music that PROMETHIUM is treating us to on "Bleeding The Ghost" gives you an immediate sense of familiarity, whilst still releasing new bits of information every time you play the record. That to me is pure gold in a polycarbonate form. Because yes, I do own the physical CD. And I'm proud of it. Time to play it again.