Pelata
Woah! Not what I expected at all! This is an aggressive, fire-breathing monster of a power metal record! Honestly, I was a bit amused at the name "Firewind". It struck me as typical, cliche, and almost immediately jaded my opinion before even hearing the album. But as soon as the opening track began barreling out of my speakers, every bit of humor I got from the band name got incinerated by the intense riffing of Gus G.
Gus, also a member of Dream Evil (2010 edit - now Ozzy's right hand man), is the star of this record not only with his riffs but with his passionate, way-beyond-skilled lead playing to boot! Listen to the harmonized dual leads on "Warrior" and try to not raise the horns in metal praise! Gus isn't the only killer to be found in Firewind though. Vocalist Stephen Fredrick (Ken Ziner) is phenomenal with his gutsy, melodic performance. He's a breath of fresh air in modern power metal. Far from a Kiske-clone, his raw, low-end melodic delivery is powerful and inspiring. Brian Harris (drums) and Honstantine (bass) prove to be a powerhouse rhythm section as well handling all the double kick-drum galloping and driving grooves with ease.
Every tune on 'Between Heaven And Hell' is worthy of mention, but that'll spoil the surprise. I already mentioned the opening title track and "Warrior", so I'll give you a couple more to whet your appetite. "Pictured Life" is a strong, mid-tempo number with hooks the size of Texas. "Northern Sky" begins with a beautiful clean guitar and lead theme before diving into a river of molten metal giving this instrumental piece a serious kick in the ass! Even without vocals, Gus G. manages to drive the guitar hooks directly and permanently into your brain. "Destination Forever" is a speedy, melodic killer with breakneck power and a very memorable chorus.
Ok, that's all I'm giving away (2010 edit - assuming you haven't heard this album by now). This is quite possibly the Power Metal record of the year for me (2002). Its not just melodic, not just loaded down with amazing guitar work, not just sporting killer vocal melodies, it's also heavy! The production of David T. Chastain is strong, clear and rich making this one incredibly fun to crank up. Believe me, I'm the first guy to call the Cheese Police on a power metal record so if I tell you this one is worthy of your 15 bucks, you gotta believe me!