Ian Parry’s Rock Emporium: Brute Force

I have been a fan of Ian Parry for many years now, whether it’s the progressive/power metal of Elegy, his Consortium albums, and various contributions on other artists works like Ayreon, he has consistently put his best foot forward, adding his golden voice to his extensive discography. Marking his fortieth year in the business comes the second instalment of his Rock Emporium project titled Brute Force, the follow up to 2016’s Society of Friends. Although I missed that one I really liked his last solo disc In Flagrante Delicto released at the beginning of 2020.

This new platter brings a huge group of musicians together, including a few who appeared on the first Rock Emporium disc. Kristofer Gildenlow, Jeroen Van Der Wiel, Allen Sorensen, Bob Wijtsma, Patrick Rondat, Timo Somers, to name but a few, are all top-notch players.

The first track “In Isolation� begins the disc with a mournful orchestral build turning into a real foot stomper and does a great job of mixing up the pace. The guitar playing is stellar, whether burning with neo classical intent or slowing it down a notch or two. Parry’s voice still sounds as youthful as ever. On “Darkest Secrets�, strong lead vocals and scorching riffs lead the way while “Til The Day I Die� is a mid-paced rocker as catchy as anything on the disc. The funky guitars and keys starting the hard driving “My Confession� with its nod to Deep Purple and the lovely ballad “Fairytale� with its mood laden atmosphere are two more excellent tunes.

Another fine slice of hard rock and metal from Mr. Parry, something we should all be grateful for. Easily recommended.

Track Listing:
1. In Isolation (5:00)
2. Darkest Secrets (3:42)
3. ‘Til The Day I Die (4:50)
4. My Confession (4:15(
5. Brute Force (3:43)
6. Fairytale (5:35)
7. Lethal Injection (3:02)
8. Rings Of Fire (4:09)
9. Dreamworld (4:04)
10. Where Do We Go From Here (3:22)
Bonus Track
11. One Vision (Tribute to Queen & Freddie Mercury) (4:24)

Added: February 12th 2022
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Artist's Official Site
Hits: 992
Language: english

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