Omen--Reopening the Gates

Omen--Reopening the Gates (1997) Rating--7.9

Good, straight-forward metal, with tastes of thrash thrown in. Omen was around for awhile in the '80s, and the return is a successful one. Fans of power metal ala Corrosion of Conformity, Iron Maiden, and Slayer (though slower) will really enjoy this--the band smacks of other titans as well, but manages to forge their own identity through nine strong cuts; a specific sound match is hard to pinpoint. Another comparable band would be Gruntruck, though Omen kicks it up a level.
Strong, razor-sharp vocals are supplied by Greg Powell--son of original (and still present) guitarist Kenny Powell. This could turn into a catch-22 situation, as other bands could very well court him to be their singer in the future. His voice is a bit like old Anselmo, a little Hetfield, but a lot like John Bush during his biting, powerful Armored Saint days. A commendable job.
In all, this is yet another solid metal release for the year of 1997. This band would do well to try and hook up with one of the heavy hitters on the road (Priest, Slayer, Maiden, Pantera), as they would get good exposure and please the fans at the same time. Recommended for power/semi-thrash fans; visit the band's official site on the links page.
HOT CHOPS: Several songs have some really good chug-chug sections, like the beginning of "Everything." Also of note is the strong groove of "Uneven Plow." Good stuff.
"Well Fed" has a tremendous buildup, and heavy chords are laid over a solid drum and bass beat--this one rocks!
TRACK LIST: Dead March/Uneven Plow/Chained/Rain Down/Reopening the Gates/Everything/Well Fed/Crushing Day/Into the Ground

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