Label: StormSpell Records
Genre: Power Metal
Links: https://prehistoriaband.bandcamp.com/album/cryptic-halo
Line Up:
Alonso “Zo” Donoso – Vocals
Shaun Cothron – Guitar
Max Otworth – Guitar
Ian Bender – Bass
Cody Johns – Drums
Tracklist:
1. Futile Invocation of Cosmic Acknowledgement
2. Rise
3. Salvation Denied
4. Obsidian Gateways [Video]
5. Everlasting Legacy
6. Paradise Lost
7. Crown of the Resolute
8. Crucible of Shadows
9. Dreamchaser
With their follow-up to the debut EP Cursed Lands, Prehistoria finally delivers a true power metal album that seamlessly blends power, thrash, and black metal elements. The result is a sound that honors classic structures while maintaining a remarkably dynamic approach.
Cryptic Halo emerges after the mind-bending first minute of Futile Invocation of Cosmic Acknowledgement – an opening sequence that feels tailor-made for altered states of consciousness (though young listeners should steer clear of such substances!). Given that Dan Wagoner, who produced, tracked, and engineered the album, wrote this piece, one has to wonder what inspired his creative process.
The album truly kicks into gear when Alonso “Zo” Donoso’s powerful scream pierces through the speakers, establishing the vocal foundation that carries throughout the record. His commanding presence transports listeners to fantastical realms across the album’s 45-minute runtime. The musicianship showcases versatility at every turn – from complex black metal time signatures to thrash-worthy drumming and guitar riffs, all while Donoso’s vocals exemplify power metal at its finest.
Prehistoria strikes an impressive balance between nostalgic elements and modern sensibilities. This versatility makes them equally suited to share the stage with bands like Rage or Stratovarius, demonstrating their ability to bridge different metal subgenres while maintaining their unique identity.
Written by: Adrian Hextall
Ratings: 7/10
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