2008 is ending strong for Power Metal fans with live releases from both Gamma Ray and Firewind plus great studio CD's from Harmony and Theocracy. Here's another you need to hear from Brazilian band Almah, their second release titled Fragile Equality and a fine one it is. Almah is Angra's lead vocalist Edu Falaschi's other band, at times this album is reminiscent of Angra, but Almah are one band that are talented, not to mention refreshing enough, to stand on their own.
Almah's first self titled album was released in 2007, the band was originally supposed to be a side project but soon it was decided to continue with another release and a new line-up. With the future of Angra now being on hold Edu has more time to concentrate on this new band. Backing up this talented vocalist is top musicianship consisting of fellow Angra member Felipe Andreoli on bass joined by guitarist's Marcelo Barbosa and Paulo Schroeber and finally drummer Marcelo Moreira.
So to what's on Fragile Equality, the lyrical concept about "the balance between all the elements of the universe", is based on a book co written by Edu. CD opener "Birds Of Prey" is a classic rapid Power Metal blaster, next the more modern sounding "Beyond Tomorrow" which has a fantastic chorus and use of keyboards, to later songs such as "Fragile Equality", which is a heavy & technical track that's also quite the thrasher at times. There are many influences to be heard throughout from Power to Progressive and Melodic metal, giving the album a diverse feel.
Power Metal fans looking for quality metal need look no further, as this release has it. Fragile Equality is an excellent CD from a more than capable band.
Track Listing
1 Birds of Prey
2 Beyond Tomorrow
3 Magic Flame
4 All I Am
5 You'll Understand
6 Invisible Cage
7 Fragile Equality
8 Torn
9 Shade of My Soul
10 Meaningless World