This is what being constant is all about. When a band writes and plays in the same direction on which it was founded upon, it can be rewarding. Moreover, nowadays this phenomenon is pretty rare as many artists wish to experience other fields in order to enhance their creations. Listening to a band such as the Irish STORMZONE will help many realize why remaining true to your foundations is more of a helper than a tripping stone. Through the sounds of their new and third traditional Metal release, "Zero To Rage", via SPV / Steamhammer Records, the 80s influence, accompanied by an epical sense, rules the day once again.

Not surrendering to modern trends made STORMZONE's music a route to sweet memories. As I could tell from this release, along with their previous two, there is a strong connection to the NWOBHM movement, especially the borders of IRON MAIDEN and SAXON. However, as I also noticed on the rest of the band's albums, STORMZONE always tended their music to become epic like tales while reminding a Hard Rock / Metal opera with a theatrics package that comes with it. Well, most of what I felt here was due to the harmonized vocals of Harv Harbinson that was the elevation of this entire album.

So you probably ask why did I give this album only seven out of ten? STORMZONE is an easy musical Metal act to get to know. As a strong 80s fan and follower, I liked what I heard right from the start. The riffs, wonderful 80s generated sound, hard as a rock solos and the buildup of the vocals, all were a source of great taste and influence. Nonetheless, I expected the tracks, each on as a whole, to sweep me away to a level that I would be hooked up with their blaze for days. That expectation didn't come true as it turned out. As much as I tried to finding the golden goose, I had no luck. Nevertheless, I wasn't disappointed either.

On the other hand I can't even imagine of not recommending this release. STORMZONE, even if not establishing a strong stature within my souls, had their way with several tracks. "Uprising", the violent of the set, gave the feeling of a marching rebel army on its way to repel their evil master. This is straightforward with no mercy. "Where We Belong" follows the IRON MAIDEN pattern of the 80s while adding an amazing vocal dimension that shared the exciting role of the guitars. When I first heard it I felt on top of the world. "Empire Of Fear" and "This Is Your Victory" were the best of the band's ongoing homage to tradition. The melodic nature of those tracks was made to high quality.

Traditional Metal is always a blessing as it is the origin of most of the stuff we hear today. British Isle's Metal still has a definite position in the worldwide scene even if not in the same magnitude as in the past. STORMZONE is one of the reminiscents of that era and I see great potential for them to strike gold in the coming years because they are close.