DIVINEFIRE - review added 3rd April 2011
Album Review: Eye Of The Storm (2011)
For fans of: Progressive Metal
Christian melodic metal outfit Divinefire, now in existence for seven years, was formed by Finnish composer, guitarist and drummer Jani Stefanovic and vocalist Christian Liljegren. Debut album "Glory Thy Name" came out soon after the band's foundation, and was followed by "Hero", "Into A New Dimension" and "Farewell" over the following years. "Eye Of The Storm" is the band's 5th studio release and marks the debut of Narnia singer German Pascual on co-lead vocals.
The sound is a rich, progressive, complex wall of melodic wails, big-rpm drums, screaming solos and huge symphonic-esque harmonized vocals. The word epic would not be out of place here, as the sheer depth of sound is staggering. That depth doesn't necessarily make for an easy listen as there's so much going on at any given moment it'll take a few fly-bys to take it all in. The overriding sense of sound though is of melodious beauty mixed with brutal power.
The quality of performance and the overall vibe is definitely on the money for this style of music, but that means nothing if the music isn't ultimately fulfilling to listen to. Fortunately Divinefire score pretty well on that front too. I have to say this is an album to respect and admire, maybe even be in awe of, more than an album to love for its sheer passion, but that still means you have an LP that's a joy to hear.
In Summation:
Don't come here looking for individual tracks as you'll leave mostly disappointed. Come to "Eye Of The Storm" looking for a brain-tingling experience and you'll stay for the duration.
Entertainment/Enjoyment:
Musicianship:
Vocals:
Song Writing:
Production:
Overall (Not An Average Of The Above):
Track List:
01. Time For Salvation
02. Hold On
03. Unchain My Soul
04. Bright Morning Star
05. To Love And Forgive
06. Even At My Lowest Point
07. Send Me Out
08. Masters & Slaves
09. The Worlds On Fire (New Recording 2011)
10. Never Surrender (New Recording 2011)
11. Masquerade
12. Close To The Fire
Band/Performers:
Christian Liljegren – Vocals
German Pascual – Vocals
Jani Stefanovic – Guitars, Bass, Drums & Orchestration
Featuring great guests playing by:
Pontus Norgren (HAMMERFALL)
CJ Grimmark (NARNIA, ROB ROCK & FULL FORCE)
Thomas Vikström (THERION, CANDLEMASS,7DAYS & MEHIDA)
Andreas Passmark (ROYAL HUNT & NARNIA)
Markus Sigfridsson (7Days, Harmony & Dark Water)
Other Info:
Label: Liljegren Records
Artist's website(s): Divinefire | MySpace
