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By JEFF MAKI
After hearing Become Death, the new album from Germany's Symphorce, the name makes complete sense. Led by vocalist Andy B. Franck (Brainstorm), Symphorce molds modern metal with symphonic sounds, driving grooves and rhythm. Franck's vocals are strong but are stereotypical, at times reminding me of John Bush (Armored Saint, Anthrax), Nick Holmes (Paradise Lost), Bruce Dickinson and even, in small doses, Dave Mustaine (on “Condemned,” “Lies”). The guitar sound is crunchy and futuristic, and the melodies are often of a gothic nature, such as in the Paradise Lost-esque “In the Hopes of a Dream.” Other songs, like “Condemned,” are even more modernized, yet Franck lets his voice soar in the dark, powerful chorus. Think of a more power-metal-oriented Disturbed. “Darkness Fills the Sky” is the heaviest of the collection and opens the album. Franck bellows a death metal vocal in parts of the song over a rhythmic gallop. The rest of the band is more than admirable, providing the rock-solid foundation for Franck, who is undoubtedly the draw of the band. Noticeably absent are guitar solos or shredding, as the band concentrates on rhythm, melody and groove. Keyboards and electronic bleeps also add to the futuristic vibe, the strongest representation being on “Condemned” and the bizarre, experimental closer “Lies.” Symphorce is definitely on to something here.
Become Death hits you hard because the simplistic song structures allow it to do so. Become Death is melodic and a departure from what most new metal bands are doing these days. I think the band's aim is to show today's metal fans that power metal doesn't have to be about dragons and sorcerers or wizards and warlocks; it can be updated and brought into the modern era. Overall, this album should have wide appeal to fans of all metal genres.
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