The Immortal Ones - mp3

'Seven Seals' is the band's sixth full-length studio release, and the pre-production reports raised a few eyebrows when it was announced the band would be "experimenting" somewhat this go-round. That word usually means bad things in metal, especially in the realm of Power bands. As fortune would have it, however, the group simply decided to take a more serious stance on the production and recording qualities that the industry has to offer, while at the same time displaying a growth and maturity in their songwriting (to an extent) -- while still maintaining plenty of attacking Power Metal bliss.
Virtually every track has some solid moments (in true PF fashion), and the disc is consistent from edge to edge. As mentioned earlier, the songwriting has matured quite a bit, though they still keep parts of the flair that is awarded to every metal band, in varying degrees. The concept of the album is rooted in biblical themes, with the book of Revelations and its chaotic motifs being the potion of choice. A strong, consistent, and tasty offering from Scheepers, Sinner, and crew.
The opener "Demons & Angels" is solid and strong, with the slashing guitar work of "Rollercoaster" hot on its heels. "Evil Spell" is a double-bass treat, "Carniwar" is chunky and crunchy, and "All for One" is also above par.
The title track has a slowed-down pace, but is arguably the top spot on the entire disc, as it truly shows the band's stylistic growth, in my opinion. It has a majestic and haunting chorus, and (like the rest of the album) proves that Scheepers can confidently be considered a "singer," and not just a "screamer". "Diablus" is another slower piece, as it drips with atmosphere and mystique. A favorite fast-mover is "The Immortal Ones," with its guitar driven note-and-chord blade dance.
A bit of an oddity shows up in the form of "A Question of Honour," which originally appeared on Sinner's 1998 release 'The Nature of Evil'. As you're doubtless aware, bassist/vocalist Mat Sinner is a member of both bands. Why Primal Fear chose to re-record and include this song (and as more than a bonus track, at that) is a bit puzzling. I'm sure the story behind it will become apparent eventually. In any case, 'Seven Seals' = 'Solid Album'. Enjoy.

TRACK LIST: Demons & Angels/Rollercoaster/Seven Seals/Evil Spell/The Immortal Ones/Diablus/All For One/Carniwar/Question of Honour/In Memory