 
It is only fitting that since I have just reviewed
the new Dragonforce album, to now voice my thoughts
on the new project that ex-singer (ZP Theart)
just started up in an attempt to salvage his reputation
after promptly diving off the singing ship that
was his former band. Whilst they have to work
from the beginning of the ladder to build up to
the reputation of Dragonforce, with a slot on
the mainstage of Bloodstock Open Air festival
confirmed and a few dates under their belt the
band have wasted no time getting their name out
there and pushing themselves on the metal community,
it’s a damn good start! Nothing more left
to say for their introduction to be honest so
let’s see what they’ve got to offer
us with this debut!
And just as I predicted a warm familiar feeling
is reignited in me the very second the vast range
and sweet tones from Theart’s voice grace
my ear drums, it’s such a familiar sound
that sparks a feeling that I have really missed
over the past couple of years. This time around
however whilst it’s still combined with
a similar musical backing of the same genre of
his past project, this time it’s not cluttered
with ridiculous over the top riffs and breakneck
speeds for the sake of it, this time the music
is just technical enough to force itself into
the limelight but in a way that doesn’t
drag focus away from the vocals, must be a fresh
feeling for Theart. Don’t take that to mean
the musicians are not as skilful, the various
solo’s prove that they’re equally
as impressive just not over the top show offs.
Album Opener “This is my Life” is
just under 6 minutes of chunky distortion, atmospheric
twists and turns in terms of emotional feeling
ranging from ominous and sinister to upbeat and
energetic.
Following on is “Silent Genocide”
which is a bouncy little gem, damn catchy too.
It’s great to hear some fresh power metal
with a great voice that can have the degree of
variation that is present on this record, 2 songs
in and we’ve already had such a vast range
of different styles and then the third “Stay
A While” draws on your soft side with some
of the lighter tones surrounding the choruses.
“Kiss of Judas” embraces a sinister
twist, “Wasted Wonders” is heavy as
hell, “In The Air Tonight” is more
classic rock with an infectious chorus, there’s
just so much on display and every track has its
own distinctive selling points and contribute
different factors to the album.
On the whole then this is a distinctive release
with much to offer, a timeless genre has been
modernised in recent years and bands like Dragonforce
have commercialised it by showing off and pushing
it into the spotlight, but it’s bands like
I Am I who keep retain the true roots of power
metal and the sophisticated song writing it entails,
welcome back Theart it’s been too long!
4/5
Review by James Webb
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