Perfect Storm
2008
New York's Maelstrom have been around since the 1980's. That fits as all three tracks on this EP reach back to the days of early power metal and early thrash. All three songs sound like they could have been done around 1985. The opener "Arise" is simple, epic stomper with a mix of both high pitch and lower, rough vocals. This one reminds me of pre-major label Manowar only heavier. The production seems a little thin around the edges though. "A futile crusade" follows and the sound is thicker and much more rich. It's a mid-paced effort that's deeply influenced by the early days of power metal. The closer is "Predestined" is a full on head-banging assault. This one revolves around massive riffs and pounding beats. The solos fly in and help elevate the song as well. This is a likable if unoriginal EP. Each track is better than the one before so saving the best for last helps "It was predestined" to end on a high note. Here's hoping they get around to putting out a full length effort in the near future. I would certainly be interested in hearing what they could create when given more time to fill.
http://www.myspace.com/metalmaelstrom
I reviewed this in AMP and I was mixed on it as well. Some incredibly written stuff countered by some very choppy things, so I will reserve judgment on the band as a whole until the next album
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