Power of Metal.dk Review

Primal Fear
Delivering the Black
Rating
Style: Power Metal
Release date: 24 January, 2014
Playing time: 51:18
 


Primal Fear was founded in October 1997 by singer Ralf Scheepers and Mat Sinner. My previous interest in the band has primarily been the Swedish axeman Magnus Karlsson's magnificent string work since 2008. I've felt that Karlsson has always been a size bigger than the band itself somehow. Ralph Scheepers vocals are something I've always thought was a paler plagiarism of Judas Priest singer Rob Halford. I've got to change my mind quite a lot after countless listenings to their newest album "Delivering the Black". Mr. Scheepers is singing better than ever and he has widened his vocals from mostly being on the highest pitches to vary between the deeper tones and the windows shattering high octaves that only he can handle now. This is the tenth album and most likely the strongest they have ever released! It must have been healthy for the members of the band that they separately have made their own little thing since their last album "Unbeakable". Magnus released his own Magnus Karlsson's Freefall last year, which was among 2013's best releases! Matt Sinner drives on with his own band Sinner and Alex Beyrodt got a big applause from me for his and Matt's gorgeous metal project Silent Force. (Which by the way was the month albums on PoM.dk).

Anyway, there are so many metal goodies to enjoy on this masterpiece. In my ears, they have stepped up many levels in both quality and the musical craftsmanship, which is top notch. Primal Fear have the right mix of musicians and the songs are incredibly well written. Their previous experiences and routine blends together in this classic disc that will certainly be on many people's lists of the best album of 2014. Perhaps the best release in the Power Metal genre already in January?

The main difference between other bands and Primal Fear is the unique effect that two amazing guitarists, together with a world-class singer provides. Same boost as Judas Priest did on their records until Hanford's voice gave up. Are you a fan of Judas Priest classic days, this is a must own in your CD-collection. With this disc they've a new big fan in me.

The atmospheric and mind blowing track 'One Night In December' is so heavenly great that I have to pinch my arm. Just Awesome!! The oriental, Gamma Ray sounding song 'When Death Comes Knocking' is a strong and beautiful song, which also stands out in the track list. It's a very intense album with a lot of up-tempo tracks and fast double bass action together with all the magic guitars, which makes this a magnificent and complete metal experience. 'Born with a Broken Heart' is a pause in the harsh sound and what a steamy ballad song. Ralf makes his biggest performance on this one. 'King for a Day' is the given opening song and is one of my favorites beside the earlier mentioned songs.

Like you perhaps realize; there isn't one filler song on this album. Just over fifty minutes of wholesome metal musical experience.

A highly recommend purchase!!!

Line-up:
Ralf Scheepers - Vocals
Mat Sinner - Bass, Vocals
Magnus Karlsson - Guitars, Keyboards
Alex Beyrodt - Guitars
Randy Black - Drums


Tracklist
01. King For A Day
02.
Rebel Faction
03.
When Death Comes Knocking
04.
Alive & On Fire
05.
Delivering The Black
06.
Road To Asylum
07.
One Night In December
08.
Never Pray For Justice
09.
Born With A Broken Heart
10.
Inseminoid
Label: Frontiers Records
Distribution: Target (Denmark)
Artwork rating: 97/100
Reviewed by: Patrik Skoglund
Date: 18 January, 2014
Website: www.primalfear.de