I just love it
when this happens to me. I review a disc I have no idea what it is going to be
like and I get absolutely pounded into the ground by quality, top shelve Heavy
Metal, it makes my metal heart extremely proud to keep seeing such quality music
being released time & time again and “The Darkest Room” is no exception to
that. The debut album from these Swedish brothers has been out independently
since February 22nd in Sweden and reached as high as #36 on the charts which is
quite outstanding for a debut album. But one listen and you will find out why,
top notch production and flawless musicianship. Now don’t forget this an indie
release. Very impressed.
Every time I
listen to “The Darkest Room” I find myself turning up the volume just that
little bit more hehehe. Musically Manimal play some well crafted power/melodic
metal. Some heavy as lead riffs and brilliant solo’s. But the standout for me is
vocalist Samuel Nyman, think (“Midnight from Crimson Glory or old school Geoff
Tate”) the high pitch screams are the best I have heard in years along with his
harmonies is just brilliant. To say that “Manimal” sounds like anybody would be
wrong, but similarities that come to mind would be Mystic Prophecy, Crimson
Glory, Queensr˙che & Balance of Power. There really is no stand out tracks on
“The Darkest Room” because they will all kick your ass to hell and back.
Manimal have
just signed a deal with AFM Records for a worldwide release (Europe June 22 and
U.S. August 25) of this metal gem. So look for it soon and be sure to buy it.
Bottom Line:
Very good quality power/melodic metal with excellent high pitched vocals.
Definite purchase.
