Reviewed - 01/05/05
Avengers
Of Steel
[Sonic Age Records]
Growing up in the 80's, I developed an affinity for classic metal and hard rock styles that I still maintain to this day. Unfortunately, very few modern bands maintain that timeless sound. Because of this, I was quite intrigued when I came across Valkija's debut album, "Avengers Of Steel", a blend of styles and sounds that reflects a classic era in metal. That being said, this is a case of style overwhelming substance, as the band just can't quite cut it in terms of performance and songwriting.
With a sound that blends several 80's styles, Valkija takes them in a slightly different direction by utilizing a female vocalist. Anna Amato has a smoky and rich voice very reminiscent of Grace Slick of Jefferson Airplane fame. Ms. Amato turns in an admirable performance here, but she is off-key quite often,and her unusual screams and screeches (The vocals in "Steel Avenger" are just plain annoying) are out of place and unnecessary. Add to that a vocally anemic mix, and it's not a good start to any band so dependent on a melodic vocal style. As with many of the album's foibles, these could have been alleviated somewhat with a more seasoned producer who could get the best performance out of a singer who obviously has greater skills than she has displayed here.
The band has written some decent riffs, but many of the performances are clunky and awkward, with an almost "live in the garage" sort of feel. There are some nice rhythm guitar tones, and the bass (when audible) sounds fat and punchy. I do like Valkija's wide array of styles and influences, which include Dio ("The Last One"), W.A.S.P. ("Son Of Thunder"), Accept ("Hatchet Blade"), and even Manowar (the terribly stark and tuneless "The Unknown Kadath"). At times, though, their influences are a bit TOO apparent, but the female voice is a nice departure from the norm.
Now it may seem like I hated this album, but that is certainly not true. I love what the band was striving for, and I definitely love their classic sound. They just need some better direction and a more polished recording for me to keep coming back for more. If better realized, this is a band that I would find quite enjoyable. Hopefully the second time around will be better.
[Sonic Age Records]
Growing up in the 80's, I developed an affinity for classic metal and hard rock styles that I still maintain to this day. Unfortunately, very few modern bands maintain that timeless sound. Because of this, I was quite intrigued when I came across Valkija's debut album, "Avengers Of Steel", a blend of styles and sounds that reflects a classic era in metal. That being said, this is a case of style overwhelming substance, as the band just can't quite cut it in terms of performance and songwriting.
With a sound that blends several 80's styles, Valkija takes them in a slightly different direction by utilizing a female vocalist. Anna Amato has a smoky and rich voice very reminiscent of Grace Slick of Jefferson Airplane fame. Ms. Amato turns in an admirable performance here, but she is off-key quite often,and her unusual screams and screeches (The vocals in "Steel Avenger" are just plain annoying) are out of place and unnecessary. Add to that a vocally anemic mix, and it's not a good start to any band so dependent on a melodic vocal style. As with many of the album's foibles, these could have been alleviated somewhat with a more seasoned producer who could get the best performance out of a singer who obviously has greater skills than she has displayed here.
The band has written some decent riffs, but many of the performances are clunky and awkward, with an almost "live in the garage" sort of feel. There are some nice rhythm guitar tones, and the bass (when audible) sounds fat and punchy. I do like Valkija's wide array of styles and influences, which include Dio ("The Last One"), W.A.S.P. ("Son Of Thunder"), Accept ("Hatchet Blade"), and even Manowar (the terribly stark and tuneless "The Unknown Kadath"). At times, though, their influences are a bit TOO apparent, but the female voice is a nice departure from the norm.
Now it may seem like I hated this album, but that is certainly not true. I love what the band was striving for, and I definitely love their classic sound. They just need some better direction and a more polished recording for me to keep coming back for more. If better realized, this is a band that I would find quite enjoyable. Hopefully the second time around will be better.
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Tracklist:
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| Rating: 5/10 | |
| Release Date: 2004 | |
| Length: 48:56 | |
| Review By: Chris Paul | |
| Total Reviews: (1) | |
| Bands Website: No Website | |
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