Shakra Everest
by Edwin van Hoof
Staff Writer
Though present for over a decade delivering their massive melodic rock, the band has built a firm following of fans. Never breaking big, the band’s thrive and growth is tremendous. With every release the band took one step forward to make a big leap finally with Everest. More mature than ever, and more powerful than most.
Variation is plenty proven by the wonderful opening hammer “Ashes to Ashes” and the magnificent semi-ballad “The Illusion of Reality,” perhaps their best effort to date. Pulled forward by the fine guitar tandem Mnuster/Blunier, of which the last is one hell of a solo-ist as well. His playing is razorsharp and he delivers with finesse. Spicing up the well composed and arranged material perfectly. A rock solid foundation is laid down by the construction workers with timing like a Swiss precision watch. Tanner is rock solid and powerful, Pfister is delivering a solid rocktone with a slightly groovy outburst here and there.
All is topped by the excellent vocal work of Mark Fox who is not pitching it up. Clear and powerful wherever needed, or emotional and passionate in the ballads (especially “Why”) and mid tempo rockers. Fox does combine the best of Steve Lee and Marc Storace to blend it into his own well fitting signature sound. “Love + Pain” is a showcase of the bands excellent skills and powerful teamwork. Driving guitar riffs that grab you by the throat, and excellent vocals which take you slowly to the harmonious chorus. It sticks… not at first… but allow a spin or two! This really grows on ya.
“Right between the Eyes” is another example, as where “Insanity” slowly builds towards the state of mind depicted in the lyrics. Raspy vocals over a buzz saw riff which slowly grows towards the chorus. Another side of the band is displayed on the one off progressive “The Journey” which displays diversity and a keen ear for composing. Ominous sweep picking which slowly ignites into a rock bombshell. Never pretentious, but close to their trademark sound, the band explores their musical horizon.
Everest is the mountain climbed by the Suisse band on this last album. A pretentious title which sets the stakes pretty high. Nonetheless Shakra manages to create a rock solid masterpiece and live up to the expectations of the title. An album with powerful playing and drop dead gorgeous harmonies, captivating and honest. Not renewing, who cares! This is a precise timed bombshell!
Line-up:
• Mark Fox – vocals
• Thom Blunier – lead guitars
• Thomas Muster – guitars
• Dominik Pfister – bass
• Roger Tanner – drums
Label: AFM
Tracklist
1. Ashes To Ashes
2. Love & Pain
3. Let Me Lie My Life To You
4. The Illusion Of Reality
5. Why
6. The Journey
7. Regressive Evolution
8. Anybody Out There
9. Right Between The Eyes
10. Dirty Money
11. Insanity
12. Hopeless
Site: Official site
HRH Rating: 8.8/10