Friday, March 20, 2015

REVIEW : KISKE - SOMERVILLE / City of Heroes (2015)

The new chapter of the collaboration between vocalists Michael Kiske (ex-Helloween, Unisonic, Place Vendome) and Amanda Somerville (Trillium, Avantasia) is certainly one thing that every single fan of the melodic hard 'n' heavy scene was looking forward to. The debut album, back in 2010, gained some excellent feedback from the metal press and fans and the two artists are back again to present us the brand new "City Of Heroes".

This new release sees Mat Sinner (Primal Fear, Sinner) and Magnus Karlsson (Starbreaker, Primal Fear) handling most of the songwriting (with a song contribution “Breaking Neptune” from Sander Gommans formerly of After Forever and Amanda Somerville herself).  Jacob Hansen (Volbeat, Amaranthe, Primal Fear, Pretty Maids, Doro etc.) is responsible for the mix, ensuring a sonic quality second to none.

The new album continues from where the debut stopped and in my humble opinion takes things to a higher level. Yes, "City Of Heroes" is slightly better than the debut. Take for example the opening self-titled track of "City Of Heroes" that grabs you at once with its melody and power. It's one of these songs that leaves you breathless and pray that the rest of the album will sound like this one! The chorus, the melody, the arrangements, the performances, everything here is flawed to perfection! And then comes the net highlight; "Walk On Water" is yet another killer tune! With "Rising" and "Salvation" we are dealing with two great melodic hard rock songs that both include superb melodies, inspired guitar lines, catchy as hell choruses and, of course, some powerful still breathtaking vocal lines from these two singers. "Open Your Eyes" is a fast-paced and edgier heavy rocker while in the anthemic "Last Goodbye" the Place Vendome influences are obvious. Brilliant stuff!!! Check out, also, the AOR-ish up-tempo tune of "Right Now".

Impressive and enjoyable album from start to finish! For sure, "City Of Heroes" is one of this year's highlights! Melodic and heavy in a such a unique way with beautiful melodies to die for, solid performances, a tight musicianship and some really stunning songs in it , "City Of Heroes" is a MUST have for every melodic hard 'n' heavy fan out there!
Rating : 10/10

Track Listing : City of Heroes; Walk on Water; Rising Up; Salvation; Lights Out; Breaking Neptune; Ocean of Tears; Open Your Eyes; Last Goodbye; After The Night Is Over; Run With a Dream; Right Now.





1 comment:

  1. It's good but doesn't deserve a 10 I think...
    A. Celtich

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