In the vein of Helloween, Gamma Ray, and countless other European power metal bands, German act Galloglass is not breaking new ground. But despite this, the group’s debut album, Legends from Now and Nevermore, still manages to stick out among other double-bass-infused mania.
The songs are up-tempo, the vocal register is high, and lyrics center on dragons and battles as per the genre, but Galloglass’ trump card and distinguishing feature is the violin, played by Hartmut Richter on the album. And while many insist there is no place for violins, keyboards, etc. in true metal, I’ve always enjoyed this more than traditional rock approach. It makes the music more interesting and developed.
And Galloglass delivers in that aspect. The violin winds in and out of several songs and is never too intrusive, but is used enough to validate its inclusion rather than coming off as a gimmick. Richter plays off Norbert Geiseler’s and Kai Muhlenbruch’s classic NWOBHM-esque solos like a third guitar, as each musician picks up where the other left off. Picture adding a violin to Iron Maiden’s presentation with Dave Murray and Adrian Smith and you have a good idea of the Galloglass formula.
The album kicks off with a subtle spoken passage in “Dragons Revenge” before exploding forth with crunchy riffs and a high-pitched wail from singer Carsten Frank. It’s a good indication of the solo-heavy attack that is to come.
Frank holds his own as well, sounding a bit like Fabio Lione from Rhapsody of Fire. The vocals aren’t as high as most in the field, which is a good thing here. Galloglass next serves up “Ancient Times,” one the of album’s standout tracks. This is mostly due to Muhlenbruch’s ability to get the most out of a slow and heartfelt solo during the bridge. Midway through is the title track, a heavier rocker that intros with punctuated notes and follows with a catchy chorus and backing vocals.
Other highlights include “The Conjuring” and “The Quest.” The former changes rhythms throughout the song, while the latter sounds like an acoustic folk tune from the Middle Ages. In all Legends from Now and Nevermore is a very good album, above-average power metal that will appeal to those who already enjoy this music. The drumming doesn’t stand out for the most part, relying too heavily on simple double-bass 16th notes. But it’s still a quality release, and makes me excited about what the band will do in the future (which hopefully includes a tour in the Unites States).
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