Embedded Files
FROZEN LAND “Icemelter”
FROZEN LAND “Icemelter”
By Bob Burner
The power metal scene is overflowing with new albums the past few years and every week a new band seems to pop up. Here we have the third album from Finnish power metal band FROZEN LAND titled “Icemelter.” This band has flown under my radar for some reason...maybe since they have your typical power metal album cover or just not a name that grabs you to listen to them. But I was very excited to check this new album out since I have been on a kick for this type of stuff as of late
.One would assume by the cover and name that they would be going the route of the over produced fantasy symphonic metal with soaring vocals and songs about dragons and battles with evil monsters. Well, they would be wrong. FROZEN LAND do a great mix of fast upbeat and almost speed metal at times mixed with that old school German power metal vibe. The vocals fall into more of the Kai Hansen style but with less power. While I like the vocals, upon first listen it seemed they were holding back some of the songs with the lack of range Tony Meloni has. Not that he is a bad singer but with this style of music you really need someone with a more powerful voice that can command the songs. After a few listens, his voice did grow on me more and it does go well with what they are doing as a band. He reminds me of early MOB RULES and KALEDON which is not a bad thing. I think when you hear power metal being bought up you think of the high pitched singers so this was almost shocking to hear someone with more of a different vocal style.
All of the songs flow together and each makes their own mark on you. What is great is most of the songs are a strong four minutes in length and there are eight songs on this new album so you really never have time to look to see how much more is left. The songs are mostly high speed firing on all engines with catchy choruses and sing along anthems. To me they did what I think most power metal albums need to do. They should make you feel energized and want to go out and do battle with evil. Another highlight for me is there was no useless intro to waste time before the first song kicks in. This album starts off with “The Carrier” and gets the ball rolling pretty fast and takes no prisoners. And it does not stop doing this till the end.
So if you are looking for an album to work out to or take on a car ride that will keep your blood pumping. Pick up FROZEN LAND’s new one and you will not be disappointed. While they are not breaking new ground or making album of the year, they are doing something great and that is packing power into a nice short album that is never boring. So if you are a fan of power metal or looking to try something different, I highly recommend this one.
Report abuse