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Manticora: Safe

Melodic Power/Progressive Metal

4.0/5.0

Nightmare Records
www.myspace.com/manticorarocks
www.manticora.dk
By Craig Hartranft,  10.04.2010

With their seventh album, has Denmark's Manticora played it Safe? The answer could be somewhat elusive. If this means Manticora continues their efficient blend of melodic, power, and progressive heavy metal, then the answer is a strong affirmative. But since 2002's Hyperion, or better 2004's 8 Deadly Sins, this has been the band's course. Go with your strengths, is what I say.

However, if you don't get beyond the first track, which seems to betray a heavy (and conventional) European power/thrash metal sound, you might disagree. Yet a more careful listen will display traditional Manticora elements with inner shades of accessibility. And things get much better with the clever and, dare I say, catchy Silence the Freedom with its vital vocal arrangement. Still the brisk pace and staccato, machine gun, drumming seems to rule the day throughout Safe. Unfortunately, that can cause the work to disintegrate into monotony quickly if, again, you're not listening carefully. From the Pain of Loss, A Lake that Drained, and especially the finishing title cut, Safe, finds Manticora's compositions genuinely intriguing from their more progressive slant. This is signature Manticora, and the band at their very best. Actually, you might want to begin with Safe and work your way backwards to discover the truth depth of this band's ongoing creativity and potential.

On their latest and seventh album, Safe, Manticora's proves what they've long established and what most fans already know: they are a premier and creative force in European progressive/power metal. Recommended.

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

On their latest and seventh album, Safe, Manticora's proves what they've long established and what most fans already know: they are a premier and creative force in European progressive/power metal.

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