Forza Italia! SLOWTORCH have released their new material and there ain't nothin' slow about this torch. It burns full flame. By the style, you would say this is another US gang, but hey, this is southern European blood. The only thing that gives them away is the vocalist's accent and the production that's not quite punchy and crunchy as the one from the North-American continent. But the difference is noticeable only for the connoisseurs. The guitar tones are just great and so are the classic beats. Riff wise, they prove themselves very inspired and there are not many moments when a listener will get bored. Many catchy passages will keep you waiting for the next tune. A mix of stoner rock and subtle sludge will fill your headphones or speakers. CLUTCH watch out! They're coming for your throne!

"The Machine Has Failed" is a 9 track album that has the perfect length for a product of this category. No ballads included. No fillers. "Hammerhead" opens this epic ride like only the bravest of the brave could: no opening riff - everything hits you together - guitars, drums and vocals. Such a smart approach, they've already pulled you in. Now all they have to do is keep you there. "Man VS Man" is the first real highlight. It's amazing to hear SABBATH influences on thousands of recordings. These riffs have already been written... these tones already used and overused. Still they deserve some kudos for rearranging them. "Behold" and "Kraken" both have super grooves going on. The slower paced "Charger" is the hit single, if there would be one in this genre. The wavy bass line gets your eyes to close and as the guitars move in you are already floating. The riffs and solo are only surpassed by the vocal arrangements and the amazingly melodic chorus. Definitely the tip of this record. The title track tries to keep the melodic vibe still going and so does the closing song "World Behind My Eyes" but fuel seems to have run out. And nothing memorable will actually be presented, but the basic expected from a band of the sort.

One of Europe's hidden gem, SLOWTORCH could prove themselves on any major festival stage. And how many more are out there in the unknown? Again it's very hard to comprehend how a band like this has only 2K followers on FB. Maybe it's their strategy to remain unpopular. Anyway, they are living proof of the fact that not only US or western European bands can put out great music. Give it a spin and it will spin you!