With Allele recently parting ways with vocalist Wally Wood, perhaps now is a good time to take a look back at what they accomplished together on their debut album, Point of Origin, released in 2005 by up-and-coming Corporate Punishment Records.

The disc may have come to some fans’ attention due to the in-studio presence of former Cold guitarist Kelly Hayes. But Allele doesn’t need to ride on anyone’s coattails. There’s nothing fancy about the music on Point of Origin, no long lost secret that the band has uncovered. The album presents 10 pieces of straight-up hard rock with a Cold-like feel to the melodies and riffs with the power of Sevendust. Unfortunately, there are not many bands that pull this off today. Most hard rock acts whose music is accessible come across as if they are pandering to the masses in search of a radio hit. Not so with Allele. The interplay between guitarists Hayes and Lane Maverick (one of Otep’s original guitarists) elevates the band above those comparable to them (as displayed on a hidden instrumental track) and, just as important, there is a palpable passion in Wood’s vocals. While he may not be terribly distinctive, his clean voice complements the band perfectly. His performance on the ballad “Immune” is simply amazing. Other highlights are “Fake,” “Lost in Your Words,” “Tightrope” and “Misunderstood.” New vocalist Andy Toole has his work cut out for him.

Filled with catchy hooks that stay with you and powerful riffs, Point of Origin is the kind of album that gets better with repeated listens. The only downside is that it lasts less than 40 minutes.