Greek heavy metal, but this time not typical epic/warrior style boasting, that is so well known from that Mediterranean country. Casus Belli was formed in 1997 and this, their latest release, was released already in 2005. So, are they still going on, or..?

Let's hope so, because we the people, need more heavy metal like this! Casus Belli masterly build a sturdy pyramid with most of the storeys from bottom upwards consisting of heavy metal, a couple of levels are being occupied by power metal, and a few most slender ones belong to thrash metal and prog metal. When all this is performed with balls-to-the-wall attitude and energy, it really cannot backfire. After all, "casus belli" is a Latin expression meaning the justification for acts of war (retrieved from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Casus_belli), so they got a name to live up to.

Heavy metal storeys offer a lot to be found. 'I'm Your Master' is a heavy 'n' speedy grabber, that does not horse around. I'm frigging obeying already! A load of rough riffs, double kick drumming, insane bass playing including a solo, and commanding vocals. 'Vengeance Is My Law' is pretty much the same, but the tempo is dropped to mid-paced. If the opener reminds me of Tarot, this second one is more new Accept. 'Holy Gates (In the Name of Rose)' has some great galloping rhythms and neoclassical melodiousness to it. 'Diamond Crown' possesses true NWOBHM soul. In 'Edge of a Knife' ethereal melodiousness is the ruling element, unlike the song's title might make one think. 'Initiation (Promised Land)' is close to Bruce Dickinson's 'Accident of Birth' era (1997). Even more so thanks to vocalist Panos Dedes' fantastic singing! 'Isolation' is the thrasher of the album, and not a million lightyears away from new Testament and the likes, with some Bobby Ellsworth (Overkill) style vocal stunts. 'Naked King' is the most modern-sounding song with its tugging guitar stuff, but no fear, there are melodic parts too. Speed metal assault 'Wrongly Right' is another true burst of energy. 'Eastern Dance' is probably the heaviest song here with hammering rhythms. Short 'n' sugary guitar instrumental is left for the last, which is the right place for it. It only would have broken the drive of the album, if it was somewhere between other songs. As you can see, every song has its own thing going on. Still the album is a tight package of heavy metal, thanks to characteristic persons doing it.

Mr. Dedes is amazing vocalist. He can do it softly or roar his adenoids to bloodyn pulp. He also can do it emotionally, whatever feeling is required. He really does sound like Bruce Dickinson at times, and on the other times like "Blitz" Ellsworth or Accept's Mark Tornillo. But generally, he's filled with character. There really is no any kind of problems with accent. Instrumentalists know their stuff too. Guitarist Panos Arvanitis shreds like no tomorrow at times, but throws in emotional bits when required. His solos are good, no only technically, but also because they stick to my mind. Fotis Anagnostou is one mad bassist, let me tell you! His fretless bass guitar playing is just... Fast! He plays with fingers, so basically he's everywhere. There's also a bass solo on the opener. Drummer Frank Huber (also in Valley's Eve, together with producer R.D. Liapakis, who did great job making this album sound heavy metal!) provides a sturgy backbone.

A very solid album, this one. Those who want heavy metal with balls, but not forgetting all melody, this is one sure bet. I really hope to hear more from these guys ASAP!!!

Rating: 7½ (out of 10) ratings explained

Reviewed by Lane
02/12/2011 22:24