So one have to
wonder if Mastercastle might be the next phoenix to arise from the
neoclassical metal ashes... well judging by this, their debut album, they have a
long way to go before they can begin to reach for the stars.
The
craftsmanship is clearly very high; the guitar leads are impeccable like they
need to be on a neoclassical album and the supporting cast in doing a good job
as well. But the song writing is pale and faceless; nothing sticks and leaves a
lasting impression.
My main concern
however is vocalist Giorgia Gueglio. She does only have a decent range and her
vocals do on occasion sound a bit thin and forced. Not that she is a bad
vocalist, I really like her voice in the upper range, but not so much in the
mid-area and her performance is only decent and needs to improve in order to get
this band further.
Main man behind
this band is Labyrinth guitarist Pier Gonella, and I am sure fans of Yngwie
Malmsteen will get a kick out of this album with its strong riffs and
breathtaking guitar leads, the rest might need to listen carefully before buying
this one...
