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Theocracy: Mirror Of Souls

Power/Progressive Metal

Rating: 4.0/5.0

www.theocracymusic.com
Ulterium Records
www.myspace.com/theocracyband

Five years have passed since Theocracy's self-titled debut album. At that time, Theocracy was the inspiration and perspiration of one man, Matt Smith. Since then Theocracy has added two more players, drummer Shawn Benson and guitarist Jon Hinds. They've had successful performances at Prog Power in Atlanta, but for the most part Theocracy is either unknown or ignored by the American music industry and metal scene. They get better attention from our European cousins which accounts for them signing with Sweden's young Ulterium Records.

With 'Mirror Of Souls,' Theocracy brings more strong power metal with enough progressive spices to liven up the mix. This is most noticeable on 'Laying The Demon To Rest,' 'Martyr,' and the title track 'Mirror Of Souls.' 'Laying The Demon To Rest' is particularly satisfying thanks to the heavier and thrashier riffs juxtaposed against a traditional melodic metal motif. 'The Writing In The Sand' develops this melodic metal style from the opening organ chords to the guitar solo crescendo. For straight, in-your-face, driving power metal, 'Martyr' fires on all cylinders. Yet the premier track is the epic piece (over 22 minutes) 'Mirror Of Souls' where Smith and company easily move between styles with dexterity and accomplishment: a remarkable and stirring song.

Theocracy's 'Mirror Of Souls' is grand and entertaining. We shouldn't have to wait this long to hear from them again. Theocracy is one of America's great hidden metal treasures: they are worth seeking out. Highly recommended.
  - Craig Hartranft

After a five year absence, in 'Mirror Of Souls,' Theocracy brings more strong power metal with enough progressive spices to liven up the mix. 'Mirror Of Souls' is grand and entertaining. We shouldn't have to wait this long to hear from them again. Theocracy is one of America's great hidden metal treasures: they are worth seeking out.

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The Powell Payne project, created in 2022 is the collaboration of Mark "Penfold Powell (ex-drummer of Psycho Kiss) and Adam Payne (former vocalist of Airrace). With guitarist Adam Davies and keyboard player ... [ Read More ]