Wicked Maraya--Cycles (1995)
Rating--9.2
Sign of Heaven--RealAudio Johnny--RealAudio
A dark, churning fest of pure metal bliss, Wicked Maraya blends crucifying riffs with smooth, hallowed wails, to make this quite
the pure and atmospheric metal experience. The band would later change their name to simply "Maraya", but the Wicked certainly applies
here.
Coming through as a slower, more methodical Nevermore at times, with strains of 'Mirror Black'-era
Santuary being prominent as well. The vocals go from an occasional Geoff Tate (Queensryche) reference, to the more apt pipes of a Warrel Dane. Not to be taken lightly, as the songs blister right to the point
(most clocking in at or under four minutes), blending biting staccato vox with the band's riff-a-minute style.
Prepare to get an
eyefull (and an earfull once you get the disc), as every song is a standout. "Another Day" starts the madness with a dark riff, and
the song proceeds to weave its way through stages of calm and heavy. "Jacob's Dance" begins with a majestic and evil riff and
vocal procession, spewing the slow and churn sounds of a more sanctified Iced Earth. "Face in the Mirror" features a soaring chorus,
and is built around yet another mind-boggling and all-powerful axe-mark.
Check out the Facelift-heavy
opening smash of "Winter's Garden"--pure iron delight, as it's as thick and heavy as you want. A groove chorus that keeps the head
moving, and shades of Queensryche show the band's depth. "Sign of Heaven" is a definite fave, as a slow, boiling chug and bass
thump pave the way for a wailing chorus. Listen to those cymbals open up after the chorus! This is a band that knows how to play,
and knows how to work a groove. "The Legacy" has a stutter riff straight from the depths of the almighty Priest,
but Maraya blends it into a sound all their own. Excellent use of the overlaying clean guitar, giving a glipse of 'Burnt Offerings'... The pre-
solo groove--steady!!
I could go on, but the point should have been made. The riffs are inventive, but more just plain powerful
than flashy. The band rocks pure and simple, but isn't afraid to pull off a bit during a song for an even stronger effect a little
later. Power technical crunch at its best.
TRACK LIST: Another Day/Jacob's Dance/Resurrection/Face in the Mirror/Johnny/Watching Over/Alone/Winter's Garden/
Forever/Sign of Heaven/The Legacy
Back to Discography