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April 2024

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[ More Music Reviews ]

Skelator: Cyber Metal

American Heavy/Power Metal

4.5/5.0

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Gates Of Hell Records
Words: Craig Hartranft
Added: 19.06.2019 | Released: 21.06.2019

Heavy metal bands find inspiration, and names, from a variety of sources. But Mattel's Masters Of The Universe? You know, He-Man. The skull-faced, cloaked in purple, Skelator was his evil arch enemy. And the name of Washington state traditional heavy metal band Skelator who, as they are fond of saying, have been "killing posers" for nearly 20 years. They return with their fifth studio album, Cyber Metal, now signed to Gates Of Hell Records, a division of Italy's Cruz Del Sur Music.

Skelator

Skelator plays, unapologetically, "keep it true" American heavy power metal. Like their New Wave of British Heavy Metal kin, this quintet works from the foundation of twin guitar harmony and the galloping groove of a rumbling rhythm section, with all things leading to generous and roaring guitar solos. Over and above this is Jason Conde-Houston whose vocal timbre and range echoes both Dickinson and Halford.

From the drop of the needle, the songs, with their cyber sci-fi themes, rush from the gate from start to finish. More often than not, you'll find a song beginning with a strong guitar start, whether by riffs or leads. Such is the case with Highlander, Akira, and Cyber Samurai. Then the race is on. Alternatively, with Seven Scars and Cast Iron the drums are favored alongside the slick guitar lines. For Psychic Silver Wheels, Skelator drops in some analog samples, then adds some riffs, rhythm, and groove lifted from the book of Judas Priest. All said, with Cyber Metal, Skelator stays true, flying the flag of traditional and classic American heavy power metal. Good stuff, and easily recommended.

Chaos Magic Featuring Caterina Nix: Furyborn

Melodic Heavy Metal Rock

4.0/5.0

Chilean vocalist Caterina Nix took the melodic metal world by storm with her beauty and voice when she appeared on Timo Tolkki's Angels Of The Apocalypse ... [ Read More ]

Note: All Amazon advertising in this review first benefits the artist, then Craig Hartranft also receives a residual. Click, and thanks for your support.

All said, with Cyber Metal, Skelator stays true, flying the flag of traditional and classic American heavy power metal. Good stuff, and easily recommended.

Alphabetical Index

Three years have passed since Sweden's Cruzh dropped their second long-player, Tropical Thunder, also introducing their new singer, Alex Waghorn. Now the band returns with The Jungle Revolution ... [ Read More ]