Italian Power Metallers, Heimdall have made a spectacular return with their 6th Album titled “Hephaestus”, which has been in the making since 2018 and later recorded in 2020 at Sonic Temple Studio. They initially formed 25 years ago, with several critically acclaimed albums under their belt and since then have undergone a few lineup changes. Current members are Fabio Callouri, Gandolf Ferro, Carmelo Claps, Nicolas Callouri and Franco Amoroso. “Hephaestus” is a mesmerizing, high-energy, creation sure to get every guitarist’s juice flowing and every metal vocalist’s chops fired up.
What a beginning. “Hephaestus instantly displays the strength and power behind this genre. The more than adequate vocals and well-written lyrics in anthemic style impress and complement their melodic accompaniment, traditional to power metal in every way.
Ripping it up, Masquerade doesn’t hold back with its insanely fast guitar solos and Nicholas Callouri’s machine-like drumming. If you haven’t heard any of the band’s earlier albums, like me, you’ll discover that Gandalf Ferro has lungs!
The vocal theatrics of ‘King’, which runs for about 4.30 minutes, make me a little envious of this stallion. Having never seen any live performance, I bet the visual presence oozing from this band would be phenomenal.
God-like and illustrious, galloping thrust, The Ruins drive us intensely forward. The addictiveness of the melody and the passion behind this track are not unlike the phoenix rising from the ashes.
Till the End of Time, soothing yet haunting at the same time. The beauty of the piano, then bang! Building up into a crescendo of emotion where I really do get the feel that we’re at the end of time. Exceptional workmanship by all involved.
Power, full throttle… There’s no holding back. I’m actually singing along while I’m writing this review.
‘We are One’…. faster, faster, tearing it up. What a ride.
Spellcaster, the synths are a little more prominent on this track, adding contrast but not dominating as the music stays true to its chosen style. The same is apparent in the closing track ‘The Show Must Go On’, what an excellent finale. It’s really hard to decide which songs are my favourite as I love them all. Go order a copy now… Fantastic!
Heimdall: Facebook
Release Year: 2023
Label: Pride & Joy Music
Category: Album
Country: Italy
Reviewed by GG Baf
