Label: No Remorse Records
Genre: Power Metal
Links: https://adamantismetal.bandcamp.com/album/reforged
Tracklist:
Ride For Ruin (feat. Jeff Loomis)
Steelclad
Funeral For a King
Reforged
The Sailor on the Seas of Fate
Time of Contempt
Gates of Miklagard
The Fall of Asterius
Territory of Lord of the Rings is where we’re off to with a scream and gallop. Power metal, when played well, makes you feel like you’re charging into an army of orcs astride a mighty steed galloping across plains. In style, the opener track on the latest release from Adamantis takes us there within the first 10 seconds. The chorus of Ride for Ruin (feat. Jeff Loomis) has lyrics remarkably sounding like “Riders of Rohan,” so I’m sticking with that interpretation, wrong or right. The bombast, energy and presentation driving the track forward make me listen for the Horn of Gondor being sounded.
A huge smile raises seeing none other than Jeff Loomis playing on the opening song. With Nevermore and Arch Enemy, this man made his name and shreds with the best. Having him added to the mix on Adamantis’ second album is a high point – and we’re only one track in!
Energy is maintained by Steelclad which also reminds us that perfectly the band can nail it with or without special guests. Jaw-drawing moments on stage are conjured by some of the drawn-out notes and shredding, immediately making us want to see the band in the live arena as soon as possible.
On a roll is the band by the time they hit the title track. Into some of the best sustains I’ve heard in a while, performance, power and pace are all wrapped, making Reforged a must-listen release. At this point we’re only halfway through, and as the speakers blast out the second half, the first thing noted is the introduction of heavyweight material that bands like Queensrÿche would be proud of, especially the epic The Sailor on the Seas of Fate. Before merging with music from the rest of the band, we hear jangly guitar-driven intros and precision picking, letting lead singer Jeff Stark shine with his best Geoff Tate impression. At almost 8 minutes, “Gates of Miklagard” continues the long tracks, and every second is worth it, making the latter tracks stand out due to their technical complexity.
This album should appeal to trad metal fans, power metal and modern metallers alike – I could wax lyrical about it.
Score 9/10
Reviewed by Adrian Hextall
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