Pelata
After 2 albums with SPV, Symphorce releases its Metal Blade debut with 'phorcefullAhead'. What strikes me odd is that the band usually ends up being lumped into the Power Metal category, but are much closer to being Prog Metal than anything else. There's not a single riff, drum pattern or lyrical reference that even comes close to what many consider to be Power Metal. In other words, Symphorce has more in common with bands like Vanden Plas and Threshold than Gamma Ray and Helloween.
But anyway, 'phorcefullAhead' is a good album, whatever genre you wish to shove it into. There are a boatload of heavy riffs, engulfing synth layers, and metal aggression to be had here. "Unbroken" is the first gem to stand out. The vocal lines are very convincing on this one and the rhythms are pounding and heavy. The lead guitar lines are also extremely well played with a heaping helping of ferocious fluidity. "Longing Home" has a strong, strict time groove on the opening before delving into a synth/clean guitar verse that is quite cool. The chorus on this one is another highlight. The guitars stand out on this tune. I really like the rhythm guitar crunch tone on this album. It's fat and heavy without being overbearing and is in just the right spot in the mix. Another track I am digging is "Your Blood, My Soul". I like the overall delivery of this one. There's a strong verse groove and a melodic, grabbing chorus and bridge. Great tune. The vocals are really well done here, just like the rest of the album.
My only complaint on the whole is that sometimes, on a few tunes, the band sounds stiff. It's like they're not feeling what they're playing. But those parts are few and far between and overall this is an album that fans of Prog Metal can pick up and enjoy on a regular basis.