Formed in Norway in the mid 90's, at a time when the country was awash in Black Metal, Infernal Manes must have stood out like a sore thumb with their classic, traditional approach. Nevertheless, the band stuck to their guns and managed to record an independent demo entitled Battle Of Souls in 2004. However, shortly after the recording was completed the band members went their separate ways and any hopes of taking things to the next level was gone. That recording is now seeing the light of day thanks to Edge Circle Productions, who have done a proper remix and issued the album in both vinyl and digital formats.
For an idea of what this one sounds like, take a little of the NWOBHM and mix it with the classic metal approach of Judas Priest, Iron Maiden and Mercyful Fate and that should give you an idea of what's in store on this six song offering. Soaring, operatic vocals, coupled with a plenty of Metallica inspired riffs are on full display here. However, the overall sound lacks punch and honestly sounds dated. Not necessarily the kiss of death, but when the songs and arrangements don't come across as original or something you haven't heard before from countless other bands, who ended up in the cut-out bin, then that is not a good sign. The only thing that saves this from being a complete waste of time is their spirited cover of Mercyful Fate's "Come To The Sabbath", which in retrospect is pretty good, but there's a sad irony in the fact that a cover song that they saved for last, turns out to be the best track on the album.
Word has it the band has gotten back together and is working on new material for release in 2015. Let's hope that one fares better.
Track Listing
1) Symphony Of War
2) Infernal Manes
3) Mind Destructor
4) True Force Of Power
5) Battle Of Souls
6) Come To The Sabbath
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