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Only a few power metal bands have been able to blow some fresh winds into a rather stale genre the last couple of years! Artizan is one of them, which they proved with their debut EP back in 2009 and like I wrote in my review; "This three songs EP shows a band with heaps of talent and potential, and if these songs are any indication on things to come then I promise you we are in for a real treat... The complex, innovative and powerful songs have references to Leviathan and could pass as a progressive version of old Iced Earth, nicely mixed up with some strong Iron Maiden influences." And the complete album fully lives up to my expectations, the four new songs and an intro blends perfectly in with the three songs from the EP ("Rise", "Game within a Game" and "Fire") and even though they do wear their influences on the outside, they are still able to sound fresh and innovative. Galloping rhythms, brilliant twin-leads, an excellent production and Tom Barden's high-pitched and unique voice make this an outstanding debut album that I am sure has received much recognition when we look back at 2011. "Curse of the Artizan" is sweet honey for metal fans that grew up listening to bands like Fates Warning, Crimson Glory, Queensryche, Savatage, Judas Priest and off course Iron Maiden, Iced Earth and Leviathan. Tom Barden is a unique vocalist and his style is the signature of the band which makes them something else, and not your normal run of the mil. The craftsmen have arisen... | ||||||||||||||||||
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