Don't you love it when a blind purchase turns out to be a gem. That is what happened
to me with this release. I heard a few people say that this was a good disc and there were Bruce Dickinson comaprisons,
so I bought it.
Machine Men are the latest in the 'what's in the water? phenomenon' concerning Finland
and all the great bands that they keep churning out. The play a power metal in the Maiden/Dickinson vein (there is even
a cover of Dickinson's Freak). Great melodies, catchy hooks and choruses..not too over blown, and great guitar
work.
Vocally, I suppose the Dickinson comparison is valid (though not as good, but
then who is?), but as I was listening to MM today in my headphones, I noticed he sounds like the guy from Mob Rules in spots...mostly
when the music slows down, but after I first noticed this, I could recognize it in the faster songs too.
As stated above, I noticed that the solos and guitar work is excellent.
Though I am no expert on guitar-work, nor do I enjoy any shred albums, this album is solid, chock full of cool riffs
and melodies. I also heard that their first one is supposed to be more 'hooky'...need to check that out!!
Overall, there is not a dud on this album...the worst song is pretty good. These guys look pretty young, so I hope to hear many more albums by these guys. Go get it!!
Favorites: Dream & Religion, Falling, Apathy, Doors of Resurrection
88 / 100
