(No Remorse)
Damn, those Greeks love the high pitched vocals and this two-guitar Spanish quartet (signed to the Athens based store/label) even dip into King Diamond falsetto territory on their second full length (+ the Knights Of Metal, debut EP)
Eight proper songs (after 41 seconds “Ascension” intro), lasting about 35 minutes. Like better known countrymen Hitten and Lords Of Black (each of whom have played North America), the music of Savaged is built around catchy songs and a bit of guitar showmanship: a fine mix of elements, to these ears.
The first vocal hits the heights, as “Fire It Up” (indeed!) follows the aforementioned, short intro, then proceeds to offer a couple of King-style falsetto blasts throughout the otherwise mid-tempo locomotive chug. In the latter half, the guitar takes over (a common construct on most of these tunes). “Queen Of My Salvation” has a bit of a pop beat, apart from the paint peeling voice (albeit not in the earlier falsetto range). Duel swirling guitars to close it out, plus a bit of cowbell.
“The Long Walk” begins with heavier guitar tones, more urgency, and then punctuated by a scream. Dial up even more speed, to kick off “Across The Burning Fields”, with six-string flourish and nearly neo-classical interludes throughout. When not wailing away, blond guitarist Jamie Killhead’s English is clearly enunciated, but heavily accented.
Honestly, a mid-paced “The Conqueror” just sort of sits there, while the Judas Priest inspired start to “Stars Are Falling” quickly adopts an easy, audience sing-along set-up. “Texas Bloody Texas” seems an odd subject from a Spanish act, but it’s actually an ode to the classic slasher movie starring Leatherface. Sort of an old W.A.S.P. pomp to it, and a return of the twiddling guitar. The galloping title track closes things out, initially with multiple part a cappella vocal harmonies.
While the singer might be too much for some, there’s plenty who enjoy such over-the-top antics. There’s something interesting developing with Savaged. Eager to see where it goes!
Rating: 7.5
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