War Is Not Over is the new release from Italian epic metal band Avoral, who are comprised of Ged (Lead Guitar), Bolthorn (Bass), Nurgan (drums), Frank (Vocals), and Samael (Lead Guitar). These guys play an over the top form of metal that mixes thrash, speed metal, progressive & power metal in a style that rarely relents, constantly showing off their musical prowess and taking the listener along for the wild ride. I'm not a big fan of Frank's vocals, his grating bark not really adding much to the bands otherwise powerful & majestic delivery. He's most accessible on the more mid-paced "Take the Power", a tune with some killer riffs and a cool sing along chorus, and the grandiose instrumental "Dark Cave Melody" sees him step aside so the band can lay down some majestic Iron Maiden style passages that truly show the skills of this outfit. For the most part though, the dual guitars are blazing throughout, backed up by some killer double bass drumming, the band channeling Maiden as well as Manilla Road in spots, though for these ears I'd love to hear them with a vocalist who has a more diverse delivery. "Journey to the Glory" sees him trying a more operatic style, but it's still somewhat jarring. Regardless, this is pretty decent fantasy/war themed power/speed metal that definitely will find an audience.
Track Listing
1) Ivory Gates
2) Unwanted Treason
3) Take The Power
4) I'll Rise Again
5) Dark Cave Melody
6) Journey To The Glory
7) War Is Not Over