PREHISTORIA
PREHISTORIA “Cryptic Halo”
By Dr. Abner Mality
PREHISTORIA should be right up my alley. They are said to be a traditional metal band that adds aspects of power and thrash metal to their sound. That’s just what the Doctor ordered. But upon listening to “Cryptic Halo”, I’m not quite as moved as I should be.
It might just be something in my personal taste. These guys know how to play and they’ve come up with a sound I’d describe as a less epic BLIND GUARDIAN meets ICED EARTH. Singer Zo Donoso has definitely got a touch of Hansi Kursch to him...the speed and melody are there. But there are some things that don’t quite add up. They border on being too fast, there are points when they should ease up on the gas and let their traditional metal roots show. An anthemic mid-paced banger or something with mood wouldn’t be out of place. Instead, they are off to the races. The drums are especially overheated and it sounds like Cody Johns is desperately trying to show his prowess. On “Rise” and “Salvation Denied”, the drums just overpower everything.
The album does have some impressive moments and they seem to increase as the album goes further along. “Everlasting Legacy” and “Paradise Lost” are two good power metal songs where the speed seems to fit. I also thought “Dreamchaser” was some good power/thrash, but a touch on the long side. The lead soloing and Donoso’s vocals are strong throughout. It’s just that there’s something about this that seems kind of rote.
I guess if you’re missing ICED EARTH, this is a decent “tide you over” kind of band. But I do think PREHISTORIA should take some time with the follow-up and see if they can hit that trad metal sweet spot.