WINTERSTORM is a Power/Folk Metal band formed in Germany in 2008. Power Metal and Germany seem to go together like peas and carrots. But, the genre is in my opinion a but oversaturated these days and there isn't a lot of originality left to cover. "Cube Of Infinity" is the band's fourth full-length album and contains ten tracks. "Infections" starts off the album with a Folk melody, and Pagan spoken words, building an ominous symphonic sound. It segues into "Pacts Of Blood And Might," which is a six-and-a-half minute charged up track, with that familiar gallop of Power Metal. It has a strong chorus and haunting bridge that leads to a string-burying guitar solo. The chanting is what gives it's a more complete sound.

"Secrets And Lies" has a similar pace with some varied riffing and a heavier bottom end. The Folk elements are not as available however and you have to search for them here and there. I feel like more usage of this sound would further set the album apart from other Power Metal bands, but the keys and symphony that are present are nice to listen to. "Effects Of Being" however nails it from the start, with a jovial acoustic melody and some build-up. The main riff is strong and weight bearing, sounding somewhat like IRON MAIDEN at times, at least until the chorus which is more traditional in the genre, like a battle cry or anthem.

The title track is riff driven for the most part and sometimes I get a BRAINSTORM vibe here. The piano is a nice addition to the song and it remains a little more emotional than previous tracks, exhorting an accessibility to the listener. "Frozen Awakening" is mysterious from the start, with a great riff and interplay of acoustic guitar. Again the IRON MAIDEN presence is notable with twin guitar harmonies. If you were going to be influenced by a band, it couldn't get much better than that. Love the piano and flute interludes as well. This kind of approach really adds layers to a sound that can be fairly linear in scope.

"Timeshift" has a stellar chorus. It's very memorable and sticks to you long after you stop listening. There are several interconnected riffs in this song that transition smoothly even know the sound changes abruptly. I found myself coming back to this track more than some of the others. "Hymn Of Solitude" closes the album, with unabashed NWOBHM influence. Overall this is a promising album. I do feel like some more Folk sounds would augment the album a bit more, but what you can hear is pleasing. It could make the difference between this being a good album and a great album, and in setting the band apart from the saturated Power Metal market more and more. However, fans of the genre, and of bands like IRON MAIDEN and BRAINSTORM will be pleased with this, and they are definitely a band to keep an eye on.