RuneWalsh2112
There are quite a few changes between the band's debut and sophomore releases. The most noticeable one is the shift in the lead vocals with Noora Louhimo replacing Nitte Valo. The other major change is the switch from traditional heavy metal sound to a mix between heavy metal and power metal. I guess that this change might be attributed to the change of lead vocalist but I honestly doubt that was the only reason for the new direction. Still, my personal favorite change from the debut album is the general improvement in the song writing department!
The album kicks off with a memorable opener "Let It Roar", followed by two more strong compositions; "Out Of Control" and "Out On The Streets". The forth track, "Neuromancer", is where the band loses me but luckily "Raven" sweeps in and returns things to normal. "Into The Heart Of Danger" is slightly more pop-oriented track that still manages to make an impression while "Machine Revolution" is a bit representative but still is a fun little track.
The ninth track, "Kingdom", comes completely out of nowhere and blows me away with the sheer power of the performance. This is definitely one of the band's strongest power metal compositions on this release. I love that the track doesn't build up and instead goes straight for the punch from the first note, even if "Golden Age" does serve as an intro to it.
The rest of the material is pretty solid even if "Over The Top" feels like a somewhat unnecessary track. "Fight, Kill, Die", the single "Black Ninja" and "Rain Man" end the album on a satisfactory note and there's really no need for the bonus track "Shutdown". The bonus servers no noteworthy purpose other than prolonging the album's length.
Battle Beast's sophomore self-titled release is an excellent album that definitely shows progression from their debut release. There are still a few rough spots here and there plus I kind of wish that there were a few more highlights. Overall I'm pretty satisfied with the release that I've been given, definitely looking forward to the next one!
***** star songs: Kingdom (5:00)
**** star songs: Let It Roar (3:40) Out Of Control (3:47) Out On The Streets (2:55) Raven (2:52) Into The Heart Of Danger (5:26) Machine Revolution (4:05) Golden Age (1:57) Fight, Kill, Die (2:44) Black Ninja (3:54) Rain Man (5:12)
*** star songs: Neuromancer (4:04) Over The Top (2:37) Shutdown (3:45)