Rating: 3.0/5
Reviewer: JP
It took me a while to wrap my head around this record. That’s usually a good thing when a band is not instantly identifiable. Regardless, UNBOUND is a very decent Metal record. Dread The Forsaken have the distinction of being one of the few dozen Metal bands from Guatemala. They have enough of what it takes that Nightmare Records picked them up last year for a debut album.
This young quartet write and record a nice blend of power and progressive metal. The album is a little on the short side with cuts across 33 minutes but it’s always good to leave them wanting more. I really like the cover art, it’s a playground/graveyard combination a bit haunting really.
Sonically I hear bits of Zakk-era, Savatage or Circle II Circle in UNBOUND. That’s a major plus. There are hints of acoustic piano, some acoustic electric interplay and dynamic and interesting song structures. The heaviness doesn’t get behind as the guitars are crunchy and full. The songs have a little bit more rock ‘n’ roll swagger than the other two aforementioned acts. The vocals of Gordon are also slightly reminiscent of Zakk a bit of edge, a bit of smoothness and just enough power. He also sings in Images Of Eden.
There are some more modern hints that I’m not as thrilled with some of the vocal cadence have a bit too much rap influence especially on songs like the title track UNBOUND veering into Biohazard/ Pro-Pain territory. Aside from that very minor complaint, this is a solid effort. There is enough energy, enthusiasm and originality that you will want to check them out.
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