Hailing from Israel, Stormbound is a six-piece act that specializes in Symphonic power metal, drawing on inspiration from global and personal emotions to deliver a very demanding record.
Several tracks have already been released as singles and ‘’ Altar of Innocence’’ still rips mightily with Yael Horwitz excellent vocals. Her voice is commanding yet subtle, able to carry the intensity and the emotive seamlessly, Ofer Friedman offers the counterpoint with the harsh and demanding.
‘’Sacred Lies’’ is a progressive metal stomper and Stormbound is a far heavier and musically demanding offering than some of their contemporaries, the time changes seamless and dynamic with some excellent kick work, Rotem Sadia’s keys add some great texture, and the twin guitars are able to shred and crunch whilst also being able to add to the melody. ‘’December’’ is a mighty power metal track highlighting again the great vocals and musical interplay and a defining epic moment for the band.
Yet their technical strength as on “Desert’s Roar’’ can also be tempered by the beauty that is ‘’ Away from Here’’ which begins simply and build and builds into a brilliant piano/vocal bridge before a great solo.
December is a compelling debut album that offers as much for the metal fan (that riff in the title track) as well as the symphonic, unafraid to experiment with various styles Stormbound offers music that is exciting, and emotional at times exceptionally heavy. An excellent display of passion and energy.
Stormbound: Facebook
Release Year: 2022
Label: self-released
Category: Album
Country: Israel
Reviewed by Sparky