Primal Fear:Black Sun

"Whoa! Holy Judas Priest tribute Batman!!!"

Just listen to the title track of speed/ power metal outfit Primal Fear's Black Sun. The opening riff's near perfect emulation of Judas Priest "Painkiller" leaves one to wonder which band does Priest better these days? The Halford style vocals..., the twin guitar attack..., thick power chords..., anthem-like choruses.... Considering the bomb that Priest released with 'Jugulator', Primal Fear might even win some acceptence with ex-Priest fans. Unfortunately it's that same lack of originality that plagues this release.

Everything on "Black Sun" has been done before. Most of the songs are by the numbers approach; a chunky heavy guitar riff intro doubled by second guitar followed by drums, bass, and menacing vocals. Mid- tempo rhythm, chant along chorus, dueling guitar solos. The album reminds me of watching an auto race on TV. Fast and furious moments like car wrecks can be exciting, but for the most part, the monotony of cars whizzing around lap after lap can blur you into sleep. There are never any moments of greatness, moments that make you replay what you just heard. The songs themselves sound like snippets or riffs taken from other metal songs.

That being said, "Black Sun" doesn't sound bad. The musicianship is tight. Guitarists Stefan Leibing and Henny Wolter produce extra crunchy riffs and tasty leadwork. The solo breakouts in "Fear", "Magic Eye" and "Armageddon" proves both guitarists can shred and easily trade off each other. It's never boring, it's just not that memorable. Over 45 mins of music, 13 tracks and not one single song that stands out.

"Black Sun" tries to deliver promise of old school metal like Priest, Manowar, and Helloween. The disc, however falls on it's own sword due to it's lack of original songwriting. Considering the talent involved, I would have hoped for something more.

Added: August 22nd 2002
Reviewer: Grant Kikkert
Score:
Related Link: Primal Fear
Hits: 3970
Language: english

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