2005-11-18
It's a bit difficult to fully describe Hellfire's music, I've heard it's being compared to King Diamond's music, and I can see why, in some guitar riffs and lead guitar work, and in the lyrics and vocal approach, but it certainly isn’t a carbon copy, it I had to put a tag on this, I would call it melodic heavy/power metal, with some Judas Priest-like vocals.
The album starts off with an intro that's quite badly chosen, it's supposed to set the atmosphere, but the heavy accent of the female narrator and the text, which isn’t exactly correct English, I was expecting a Goth album, the album's cover also seems to indicate that.
But once the first track starts, Road To Hell, its rip-roaring metal at its best, the band are definitely professional enough, each band member knows his craft, guitar work is top notch, and the vocals are extremely powerful, moving from a mid-section power metal voice into a Judas Priest higher scream, as I said, I can certainly see where the King Diamond comparisons are coming from, a lot of temp changes and riffs, it has the same vibe as some of the classic King Diamond albums.
The House brings another helping of their brand of melodic metal, again, very well executed, though this is only their second full length release, they are proficient players that use some excellent melodic touches throughout.
They do need a bit of work on their English, song titles like Twist Of Knife suggest their control of English grammar is a bit problematic, but their fine music and great vocal abilities certainly compensate.
The criticism I read in some places about the band copying King Diamond is, I think, is a bit narrow-minded, if they are regarded for what they are, a melodic metal band, and not copycats, it's easy to see this album for what it is, a solid metal release, thoroughly professional, and quite enjoyable.
Alon Miasnikov
