This is the debut album from Italian power metal band Alterium.
Brought to us be ex-members of Kalida and Kaledon, Of War and Flames contains 42 minutes of engaging and well-delivered power metal material, (including a Sabaton cover).
Alterium’s music is concise and professional. The well-written songs are punchy and tight, delivering tasty power metal in accomplished hits of classic songwriting that hit the mark.
The vocals are the main focal point of a band like this, and they do not disappoint. The singer’s voice is powerful and strong, and her performance throughout is faultless. The choruses are catchy and the rest of the music, including the occasional choral, orchestral, and piano elements, support her voice well.
The guitars have a decent crunch to them and supply riffs that work as foundations for the singer’s talented vocals. I like the solos peppered around the songs, and there are some infectious melodies and leads sprinkled around too.
Overall Of War and Flames is a solid and enjoyable album. Unlike some power metal it doesn’t overstay its welcome, offering a lean running time packed with good songs that are easily digested and satisfying.
Highly recommended for fans of the style.
Wonderbox Metal 