Stephen
"Unbroken" is the sophomore release of the Melbourne-based power metal act, but unlike the German's traditional melodic style, Anarion leaned toward the American style with thrashy edge, probably familiar if you have heard Nevermore or Iced Earth. After going through several line-up shuffling, the Australian quartet eventually landed a deal with Majestic Records and the album was finished and released in 2006.
The big opener, "New Eyes Old Lies", has already hooked me with its powerful thrashy riffs salvo, combining the low register and soaring vocals and Stergiadis' hypnotic shred. "Blind Mortality" introduced a prog/heavy metal approach with a dynamic ever-changing vocals from Mecchi's normal shout to growly scream. "Greed of Man" crawled with a slower start before Burnham's double-pedal whack transformed the whole song to a faster pace, unfortunately I felt the idea of the song is too safe and standard, although not bad at all. That also goes for "Broken Truth".
For a 45-minutes power metal album, putting three ballads is definitely not a wise decision because it will only erupted a frustrating confusion to the listeners expecting a full head-crusher hammering tracks. "Live In Me", for example, a sleepy mood-dropper filler. "Below", is even worse, clocking at 6 minutes, this too-long track will bored you to skip immediately. "Conflicting Self", however, put Anarion's train on the right track. They should have omitted the others and included this track alone as the sole ballad, if necessary. Good thing for them, "Another Level", is a rewarding closer, flows with a spectacular rhythm and furious drumbeats, the song stood high as the climax of the album.
Bottom line, "Unbroken" could be a stepping stone to a brighter future, at least they have the potential, but for now, two and a half stars is the least i could give. "Unbroken" could make a decent addition to your power metal catalogue, but don't expect too much out of it.