|
|
|
|
Sure, it’s all fine and good for bands like Skylark to make power metal “pretty,” or for bands like Fairyland to drown songs in swirling keyboards. But once in awhile, it’s refreshing to hear a band like Wiz who puts the “power” back into “power metal.” Of course, Shattered-Mind-Therapy features a few nifty, noodly guitar parts and fantasy-based lyrics, hallmarks of the genre. Unlike so many others’, though, these songs don’t enter the dreaded realm of “cheesy.” The heavy metal quality of the songs will make you want to listen again and again. The songs on Shattered-Mind-Therapy are pretty bottom-heavy, moreso than many other power bands of this genre. Combined with the “chugga-chugga” guitars, the music can be quite like a punch to the stomach. But in metal, that’s a good thing. The most impressive thing about this album, though, is the catchiness of each and every song. “Mr. Sandman,” “In Your Eyes,” “One Chapter of a Fairytale,” “Understand,” “Return of Atlantis,” “Empty Words,” and “From the Ashes We Rise” all have sing-along choruses that you’ll know by heart after just a few listens. “Super Psychic Woman” is another standout. It shows off the emotion and power in singer Freddy Persson’s voice, which is a perfect match for the music: just melodic enough to fit power metal, but not too operatic. Most of the songs’ melodies come from the vocal line, rather than keyboards or guitars. Wiz stands out from many other bands in their genre, combining fantasy with heavy metal attitude. Both power metal and heavy metal fans should enjoy this great album.
| Tracklist |
| 1. Mr. Sandman |
| 2. In Your Eyes |
| 3. Super Psychic Woman |
| 4. One Chapter Of A Fairytale |
| 5. Sun Moon Stars |
| 6. Down |
| 7. Understand |
| 8. Return Of Atlantis |
| 9. Empty Words |
| 10. From The Ashes We Rise |
: 46.02
| Buy other Wiz albums |
