Artist: From The Depth 
   Title: Back To Life
   Label:
Rising Records

'Back To Life' is the second album from this Italian band, who started in the underground scene in Italy.  Sounding similar to Apocalyptica and early Dream Theater in their intros, the songs soon turn into speed/power metal with more than a wink to Dragonforce. 

The only real problem is that, musically, each of the songs sounds the same.  This can be a little annoying as it means waiting for the intro to finish and the vocals to start to know when its a different song; the different intros help but it can be confusing if you're not ready.  Saying that, each song is skillfully executed with plenty of Italian passion and fire, and a beautiful vocal lead with a good ear for the key changes. 

The solos are, again, something else.  Using a keyboard in conjunction with the guitars gives a synth sound that doesn't jar against, in fact, the harmonising amongst instrumentation is again pitch perfect, belying the skill each member must bring.  And the keyboardist isn't restricted just to just the odd solo, but has a part to play in every song, increasing the speed/power metal feel. 

Favourite tracks so far include 'Don't Forget Who You Are', using the talents of all members, and given the keyboardist, it does have a Nightwish-feel to it as well, which is possibly why I enjoy it.  'Lack of Emotion', strangely, is an instrumental track that starts dark and ends up light, as if the music is charting the change in mood.  This is then reinforced by the next track, 'The Will to Be The Flame', a very upbeat track for power metal. 

This album should be a sure buy for any Dragonforce fan or those who enjoy power metal.

Review by: Kerry H

 Tracklisting:

1. Back To Life
2. Live For Today
3. Our Music Our Souls
4. Don't Forget Who You Are
5. Lack Of Emotion (Instrumental)
6. The Will To Be The Flame
7. The Cruel Kindness
8. You Just Have To Fly
9. Straight To The Source
10. Nenia
11. Nothing To You
12. Leading My Essense Above All

                  

 

All content copyright of The Mayfair Mall Zine unless otherwise stated.