Savatage--Sirens

Savatage--Sirens (1984) Rating--8.0

From the depths of Florida arises an underground legend, releasing an uncovered gem of an indie album that would start a 14-plus year run at power metal that is still continuing today. The band has gone through a number of lineup changes (due to both choice and fate), and until the late '90s its sound remained solid and constant.
This debut showcases the screams of the power-throated Jon Oliva, and the sharp riffs of brother and guitarist Cris. Comparable to mid-eighties Armored Saint-- not only in metal sound, but also because neither band ever really received the recognition it deserved. Solid metal, but just not enough to be pushed over the top.
The title track starts out with a solid, slashing little riff, which would become the norm for the band over the next six to seven years---sometimes affectionately known as the "Oliva strut". "I Believe" blends with a nice kick-in, and then features strong guitar work during the chorus sections.
The strut riff of "On the Run" reminds one of late '70s-era Priest, and other driving rhythms are displayed on "Twisted Little Sister" and "Living For the Night".
"Scream Murder" is fast and non-stop, and features some great Oliva screams that would become a trademark---manic, yet controlled. "The Message" is a bonus track on the re-release version of the disc, and is very similiar to the band's late '80s slashing style.
TRACK LIST: Sirens/Holocaust/I Believe/Rage/On the Run/Twisted Little Sister/Living For the Night/Scream Murder/Out on the Streets/Lady in Disguise (bonus)/The Message (bonus)

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