Pell, Axel Rudi: Risen Symbol

Alex Rudi Pell's latest album, Risen Symbol, marks a triumphant return for the guitar virtuoso and his band. The album opens with the furious "Forever Strong", an anthemic powerhouse that showcases the band's ability to craft catchy, hard-hitting songs. The pace slows slightly with "Guardian Angel", a hair metal-inspired track with a late 80's feel and a simple but memorable chorus.

Next, the band takes on Led Zeppelin's "Immigrant Song", putting their own unique spin on the classic. The cover is unrecognizable at first, with a slow build that eventually gives way to the iconic riff. Vocalist Johnny Gioeli (Hardline, Crush) delivers a solid performance, and the slow Mo solo section adds a new layer of depth to the song.

In the song “Darkest Hour� I feel the guitars are a little over produced, and is one of those songs where the bridge is way better than the chorus, so multiple guitar whips and tricks need to be used to make the song more appealing.

The epic "Ankhaia" is a standout track, with a Dio-era Rainbow-inspired sound that blends proto- metal riffing with late 70's heavy metal grandiosity. The song's fantasy lyrics and heavenly/Valhalla vibe add an extra layer of appeal, making it a clear highlight of the album.

"Hell's on Fire" is the catchiest rocker on the album, with a sing-along chorus and a guitar solo that rapidly becomes an earworm. "Crying In Pain" is a mellow, dark, and heavy power ballad that recalls late 80's/early 90's Scorpions, with solid, heartfelt soloing by Alex Rudi Pell.

The album closes strong with "Right on Track" and "Taken by Storm". The former is a catchy, hook-laden track that's easy to hum along to, while the latter is a heavy, epic closer that recalls Holy Diver-era Dio.

Throughout Risen Symbol, Alex Rudi Pell and his band deliver a solid record that showcases their power and class. With its mix of catchy rockers, epic anthems, and heavy metal grandiosity, this album is a must-listen for fans of the genre. Cheers!

Track Listing:
1. The Resurrection �" Intro (1:42)
2. Forever Strong (4:43)
3. Guardian Angel (5:27)
4. Immigrant Song (5:47)
5. Darkest Hour (5:31)
6. Ankhaia (10:10)
7. Hell’s On Fire (4:47)
8. Crying In Pain (6:50)
9. Right On Track (4:46)
10. Taken By Storm (7:37)

Added: June 25th 2024
Reviewer: Jose Antonio Marmol
Score:
Related Link: Artist Website
Hits: 573
Language: english

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