HOLY FORCE — Holy Force (review)

HOLY FORCE — Holy Force album cover Album · 2011 · Power Metal Buy this album from MMA partners
3/5 ·
J-Man
Holy Force is a relatively new power metal supergroup consisting of accomplished musicians from acts like Symphony X, Manowar, Yngwie Malmsteen, and a host of other metal bands. This impressive lineup have crafted some really killer power metal tunes for this self-titled debut album, and people who enjoy heavy-edged American power metal with influences from traditional heavy metal and European neo-classical power metal should get this one in their collection immediately. Holy Force obviously don't set out to re-invent the wheel with this album, but the quality of the musicianship and compositions are high enough to make Holy Force worth a look from fans of the genre.

The music here is a cross between power metal, neo-classical shred, and 80's heavy metal. Nothing too out of the ordinary, but Holy Force delivers the style with an immense amount of professionalism and craftsmanship. Ango Chen's intricate guitar work never ceases to amaze the listener, and this album is filled with powerful riffs, soaring solos, and mind-blowing shred antics. The rest of the band is always tight and precise, and Holy Force is an extremely well-playing act across the board. The compositions themselves - despite always being well-written and professional - seldom reach a level of excellence, and most of the album strikes me as "very good, but not excellent". There are exceptions, but most of the album remains at a constant level of compositional quality.

All in all, Holy Force have crafted an album here that's professional and impressive, even if it rarely makes my blood boil. If you enjoy power metal and are okay with a somewhat "by-the-books" approach, by all means check out this debut. Holy Force is bound to contain some of the most impressive guitar work you'll hear this entire year! I'll play my 3 star card here - I can't see myself revisiting the album very much, but the quality is dependable and impressive all the way through. This one comes recommended from me - just don't expect anything revolutionary!
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