I grew up in the late 80s early 90s, so I’m very used to hearing the difference between 70s proto-metal and the more polished releases of the 90s and beyond. There was a certain timeless nature to the releases of the late 70s and early 80s, but I always felt there was something lacking there, and I believe it was the production.
Nightbound’s EP release will give you this feeling – which, if you’re a fan of NWOBHM acts such as Thin Lizzy, Saxon or Iron Maiden, you’ll be in your element. The guitar and bass tones a so old skool they’re sporting their own tight jeans and bagging black t-shirt. Soldier of Fortune seems a little out of place but is an interesting ballad in an overall rock n’ roll mix. Doldán’s drums are steady and add to the music well, and Curenca’s vocals are strong and generally well rounded.
Martinez’s lead guitar has some great ideas, but these performances detail a need for these guys to hire a producer – an outside entity that can push them to their limits and make sure all notes, drum hits and vocals sections are on point. It would make this release sound more polished and less like a demo.
However, the song structures and writing have some real solid sections and even moments of brilliance – like the bridge in Time Is On Your Side which is awesomely emotional.
There is real potential here to create something awesome, it’ll be interesting to see where they go from here. Suited a forgivable old rocker who believes Thin Lizzy could be improved.
Release Year: 2019
Label: Awakening Records
Category: EP
Country: Paraguay
Reviewed by Liam Frost-Camilleri
