If you love that traditional 80's metal styling, you should find plenty to like and enjoy.
Crow7 is a German melodic metal band that has tried to create its own genre ProMeRo which is defined as progressive metal rock which interweaves 80’s rock, progressive metal and even some metalcore growls. Their debut ‘The Picture’ came out in 2006 followed in 2010 by ‘Light In My Dungeon’. They have since been hard at work and the culmination of that is ‘Symphony Of Souls’.
The title track kicks things off; a soft intro of synth gives way to a ripping progression and a pounding rhythm section. This retro composition makes way for a far more bombastic chorus. The only complaint about this track is that singer Corbin Eved seems to struggle with some of the higher notes especially in the chorus. ‘Streets Of Slaver’ and ‘Virtual Reality’ take the retro feel a step further; ‘Slaver’ has some soaring guitar and a punchy chorus whereas ‘Virtual’ is more melodic with some nice synth effects. Progressively there’s ‘Great Spirit’ which has a huge 80’s riff and keys start before various time and melody changes including a galloping section and spoken verse. ‘The Final Ride’ has a metal composition whilst the likes of ‘Winner Of The Quest’ offer a more rock like consistency. ‘Ride’ really does feel like roaring along the highway on a bike, keys and synth lead in before a charging deep riff takes over driving into its memorable chorus. ‘Winner’ arrives under a cloak of illusion, soft keys and sensual vocals falsely belies a 80s power ballad. Suddenly the song erupts in to a fast paced rocker complete with male roars in the chorus. Given the album’s length there’s space to include two ballads the best of which is ‘Winter Breeze’ which includes female vocals from Janine Wiesemann.
Although it has negatives this is an enjoyable heavy rock/melodic metal album but one that will depend on your taste. Due to its 80s inspired riffs this will be like politics; some will love it whilst others will fail to see any point to it. A possible comparison is 80s heavy rock like Survivor meets modern metal in Funeral For A Friend. Eved is solid singer and generally his gravelly voice works well but occasionally he tries for high notes that just don’t work.
Musically this is first rate; both guitarists perform a varied range of riffs and progressions with clear ability. This is all wrapped up with a polished and clear production to give a modern finish to the retro music. The biggest knock on this album is that it is simply too long. At 79 minutes there is so much to wade through that by the end fatigue sets in. A few less tracks and this could have been even more enjoyable. If you love that traditional 80’s metal styling, you should find plenty to like and enjoy. There are some great retro riffs and it will take you back. If you’re not a fan of that retro sound, you might want to approach with caution.
Dave Scott
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