Fast Train Union: II

Fast Train Union, a Canadian heavy metal band from Vancouver, BC, unleashes their sophomore album II (2012), a testament to their classic metal, doom, and stoner metal influences. The lineup consists of Sean Potvin (lead vocals), John Wetherilt (lead & rhythm guitar, background vocals), Al Fitzgerald (lead & rhythm guitar, background vocals), Al Perrier (bass), and Paul DeMarinis (drums).

The album kicks off with "Aletheia," a banger that showcases the band's classic metal roots, with heavy riffs, dueling guitars, and smart licks, setting the tone for the rest of the record. The vocals, while initially seeming unatoned and flat, reveal the doom/stoner metal aspect of their sound.

"If You Can Feel It" is a fast-paced rocker where Klassen's James Hetfield-esque tonality adds depth to the melodies, which, while not overly hooky, are memorable and slow growers. A cool guitar solo highlights this track.

"Sweetwater" caught my attention with its addictive dual guitar intro, reminiscent of early Iron Maiden, and a raunchy, heavy Thin Lizzy vibe. "After All" features impressive guitar arrangements and catchy melodies, with a boogie piano intervention on the bridge that adds a cool touch. However, the lyrical content, at times shallow or basic, is overshadowed by the great rocker performance.

"The Truth" follows with mid-paced delivery, great guitar work, and heavy, fat bass lines. "In Peace" brings us to stoner metal territory, with slow-paced, heavy riffs and an epic, hypnotic ending. "(Fly) Until Tomorrow" starts with a cowboy metal feel, merging into Black Sabbath-inspired doom metal, with relentless riffs and a doom heaven atmosphere.

"So Far Away" sacrifices some heaviness for more melodic and conventional music, where the vocals fit better. "SSD" could have been an early Ozzy Osbourne solo record track, navigating classic metal and doom metal waves. The album closes with "When You're Gone," a mini-epic tune reminiscent of Sabotage-era Black Sabbath, with a grungier touch.

While not the greatest metal or rock album, II is a solid record that will appeal to fans of the genre, especially those fond of doom and stoner nuances. Fast Train Union's sound is shaped by their influences, including Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, and stoner metal bands like Electric Wizard and High on Fire. With their sophomore effort, they cement their place in the Canadian heavy metal scene… cheers!

Track Listing:
1. Aletheia (5:35)
2. If You Can Feel It (3:53)
3. Sweetwater (5:19)
4. After All (3:30)
5. The Truth (5:00)
6. In Peace (5:31)
7. (Fly) Until Tomorrow (6:33)
8. So Far Away (5:28)
9. Ssd (3:26)
10. When You’re Gone (6:48)

Added: August 26th 2024
Reviewer: Jose Antonio Marmol
Score:
Related Link: Band Website
Hits: 267
Language: english

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