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Artist: Martyr |
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Originally, Martyr were
only around for 5 years between 1982 and 1987, but reunited in 2002 for
a one-off gig, then in 2005 reformed for good. This is their second
album since the Dutch metallers reformed. The main flavour is a more
thrash based band with hints of Iron Maiden and Machine Head, giving
Martyr a recognisable sound almost instantly, and will attract new and
old fans alike. The 12- track album
opens strongly, with an immense guitar-based sound gelling with the
vocals and the drummer, giving the perfect backing to the songs. The
guitar riffs throughout are heavy, rhythmic and tailored to each song,
utilising all of the talents of the guitarists. It's nice to hear
rhythmic proto-thrash coming back into the mainstream again. They could
give Iron Maiden a run for their money! A favourite song at the moment is the title track 'Circle of 8'. It's slightly different from the other tracks, slightly more melodic, but it fits in well and harks back to the beginnings of metal, but throwing in some new influences to the mix. The intro to the following track, 'All Warriors Bleed', is also intriguing because of its differentiation from the others, a slower track overall with extensive guitar work, showing again the skills of Rick and Marcel. The very talented vocalist Rop's skills can be seen all across the album, working from the different influences to give an international and not just European feel to this album. 'Speed Of Samurai' is a cover of an earlier version of the song. Having not been able to hear the original, I can only base this song on those preceding it, and again, the song is diverse, with heavy, skilful guitar riffs/solos breaking up the vocals in a melodic, near-thrash form. This album would have wider appeal as anyone into metal could listen to it Review by: Kerry H |
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| Tracklisting:
1. D.I. |
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