Serious Black: Vengeance Is Mine

Vengeance is Mine is the new Album from Melodic Power Metal band Serious Black. Since their inception in 2015 they’ve been a relatively prolific act despite contending with a few line-up changes along the way. Their new album is set for release later this month.

I have a love/hate relationship with Power metal. I typically love the bands and albums that I can tolerate, and everything else just isn’t my cup of tea. Surprisingly then, my reaction to this album is neither Love or Hate-I find this album to be a solid release. Perhaps the album is a touch generic, but that’s not a criticism as I find Power Metal to be one of those sub-genres were staying true holds bands in good stead. The album has pretty much everything I look for in a power metal album; soaring vocals with memorable melodic hooks, good riffing, and a rock-solid rhythm section.

The album is their first with new singer Nikola Mijić, and it must be said that he’s slotted in well. To my ears his vocals are the highlight of the album and are a little reminiscent of Tobias Sammet (Edguy) in terms of the delivery style and melodic sensibility. The vocals are the strongest aspect of the album, but that’s not to say the instrumentation is weak- the playing is quality across the board.

In addition to the new vocalist, a point of interest on this album is the relatively personal lyrics penned by band leader Mario Lochert. This isn’t an album packed full of tales of slaying dragons or fighting epic battles . The personal touch is a welcome addition.

I’ve been aware of this band for a while without ever taking the time to dip my toe into their catalogue. The trepidation may have come from an assumption that their name is a reference to Harry Potter (Sirius Black)- Harry Potter themed Power metal doesn’t appeal to me! But I needn’t have worried because Serious Black play a gimmick-free brand of Melodic Power Metal. Whilst I feel the album loses a little oomph towards the back end (it’s a 13 track long release), there no doubt that Vengeance is Mine is a solid, enjoyable record.

Track Listing

1. Rock With Us Tonight
2. Out Of The Ashes
3. Fallen Hero
4. Senso Della Vita
5. Ray Of Light
6. Soul Divider
7. Tonight I'm Ready To Fight
8. Just For You
9. Soldiers Of Eternal Light
10. The Story
11. Queen Of Lies
12. Album Of Our Life
13. Alea Iacta Est

Added: February 13th 2022
Reviewer: Chris Reid
Score:
Related Link: Band Website
Hits: 900
Language: english

[ Printer Friendly Page ]
[ Send to a Friend ]