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On The Edge
Iron Fire |
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It seemed like yesterday I was writing about their debut "Thunderstorm" and more than likely giving it good reviews for its on target embodiment of the Metal tradition. This time around-what is it, some two weeks later-they've basically retooled, rewritten and revitalized themselves into something much broader, and not in so much as broodier it should be noted, but definitely more aggressive and digressive in terms of their lyrical escapades. No longer modeled after the flighty, fantasy variety as the latest legions of Power Metallers are prone, this Danish quintet seeks further exploration into the darker side of life-"Eternal Damnation," leading into "The End of it All," and how the fickle hand of fate may yet be warded off for those with the vision. The band has gone far in enhancing their original sound by not only down tuning their instruments but adding some interesting studio nuances by way of off center side effects and studio blurbs that sometimes have the potential to sound awkward but seem fairly well directed in most cases. Vocalist Martin Steen, from the beginning, wanted to model a band after the best of the best from Germany and under the direction of producer Tommy Hansen, known for his work with Pretty Maids and Helloween, the similarities are striking. "On The Edge" is a perfect example of the wholly Germanic way in terms of battle-hymn like choruses and melodic story lines penned to strictly riff-driven foundation. Steen himself however, while having assembled a formidable roster of heavy instrumentalists and strong players under the guidance of denim, leather and studs, comes across as an unusual cross between Kai Hansen and Vince Neil of all people-and the further along we go the more the scale tips toward the latter. Not a bad thing necessarily but odd considering the premise from the onset. I like Iron Fire and the fact that they've moved away from the predictability of before-that of the starry eyed hero worshippers borrowing from the cliché-ridden weapon drawer of the many who've traveled the course before. Having managed to recruit the famed illustrator Andreas Marschall to create their new album cover, they must be on the right path. If this were a number rating, I'd throw a six out of ten their way and hope they could come together a little better in the studio. It's a little better than before but the fluidity isn't there yet and this sounds rushed-but if they can hold it together a while longer, the parts should be in place for future success. Released by Noise Records Review by Vinnie Apicella
[va85@columbia.edu] |