This Swiss Power-Metal quintet were founded in 1999, and released two albums (‘Awake’ in 2000, ‘Immortal’ in 2004) before coming back with ‘Damnatio Memoriae’ in 2009. They have a new album coming out next month, so are again pushing the last one, so what is it like? First and foremost these guys are a power metal act, with plenty of influences from Hammerfall, Iron Maiden and Judas Priest to name just a few. But, there are also times when they come across as Scorpions as well, especially when they slow it down, and there are certainly lots of different styles in what they are trying to achieve. But, there is no doubt that they really need to stick to the faster and heavier material as here they can get away with it, whereas on the slower numbers where the vocals tend not to be in such a high register Crow doesn’t come across as well as he does at other times.
Keyboards are used sparingly and often in the background as opposed to being a key lead instrument, but it does assist in also giving them a Sonata Artica feel at times. When they are going full pelt then there is plenty here to enjoy, but none of the songs are really memorable and even after playing this quite a few times they hadn’t stuck with me at all. But, if these guys were playing locally I would definitely go and see them, and if you want to try them for yourself then there are samples on their website at www.medusaschild.com
