Power metal is a mostly European sub-genre,
with Germany, represented by Helloween, Blind Guardian and
Edguy, as one of the leaders. Now comes Omaha, Nebraska's
Cellador. The band was founded in 2004 with the intent of
introducing the Midwestern United States to this style, which
combines traditional metal trademarks, a strong emphasis on
songwriting and musicianship, and lyrics often based in fantasy
(dragons and other mythical creatures are popular).
Cellador is in line with the first elements, but steers clear
of Dungeons & Dragons, writing instead about topics with
real relevance, such as world events and personal issues.
Cellador could very well be singing about a sword in the stone
here, but who cares? The musicianship is amazing. Guitarists
Chris Peterson and Bill Hudson provide lightning-fast riffs
and solos, while vocalist , Michael Gremio has an obvious
Bruce Dickinson influence. The choruses and melodies are nowhere
near as layered and involved as European power metal acts,
but they get the point across. The more straightforward approach
is actually more effective at times.
One listen to the blistering opener, "Leaving All Behind,"
or the memorable chorus of "Never Again" and you should gain
an immediate appreciation for Cellador. Each song is fast
and memorable, though a lack of variety blends the songs together
somewhat.
With an opening slot on Trivium's 2006 tour and Metal
Blade strongly behind this release, Enter Deception may be the start of a solid career for Cellador and for power
metal in the States.
www.cellador.com |
