Axxis Utopia

by Jay Villain
Staff Writer

The new release from Axxis, is musically-appropriately titled; Utopia. Utopia is defined as the state of things in which everything is perfect. The execution and the song structures are perfect. This CD is high energy; it’s a fusion of power and thrash metal performed on an epic scale. Utopia offers incredible playing by some very skilled musicians. However, the CD is a bit much on the high end at times. Don’t misunderstand: Nothing is overplayed; it’s not a musician issue, it’s a production issue. The vocals, guitars and keyboards are all in the high register. With the high end going on, a boost in the low end rhythm section would add more of a balance to the overall output. That’s not to say Utopia isn’t an enjoyable CD, because it most certainly is.

The first song is an intro instrumental that’s also appropriately titled. The “Journey To Utopia” title describes this CD best because that’s exactly what Utopia does; it takes you on a musical journey. With superb musicianship, Axxis tears into this CD with the second song and title track, “Utopia.” Opening with full force and much power, “Utopia” sets the tone for the rest of the CD. It’s up-tempo power thrash that’s performed on a theatrical level. “Last Man On Earth” starts off with a hauntingly melodic keyboard intro that maintains the suspense as if it we’re the soundtrack for a fast-paced film.

“Fass Mich An” allows the bass guitar to take on a more predominant role, with a very nice tone, the bass carries this song. Following a melodic guitar solo, “Fass Mich An” takes on an ominous feel with a dynamic bridge just before the chorus. “Sarah Wanna Die” begins with a very memorable, classic sci-fi style keyboard progression. It’s classic, as in the ‘50s and ‘60s black and white sci-fi. This song is a burst of energy complete with a guitar solo that’s sure to make people take notice. “Father’s Eyes” is what could be referred to as the musical interlude of Utopia. It’s a power ballad that slows down the momentum of the CD. Some may find that refreshing, and others may not. Fortunately, “The Monsters Crawl” reiterates to the listener the metal conviction of this disc.

This brings us to the melodic “Eyes Of A Child.” The female vocals add the element of mystique to this song. Her presence is heard throughout Utopia with a perfect blend between the lead and background vocals. When she sings some lead for example in “The Monsters Crawl,” “Eyes Of A Child” and “For You I Will Die,” her vocals never overshadow what’s going on; they add to it. “Heavy Rain” is written with the classic power-metal mindset. “For You I Will Die” contains a couple interesting elements. First, the keyboard starts the song using a unique sound, almost like a video game. It’s followed by a syncopated rhythm that appears throughout the song.

And so Utopia wraps up with perhaps the fastest song on the CD called “Underworld.” The drums carry this song from start to finish, double bass drums are at it’s finest, along with some impressive guitar and keyboard soloing that skillfully trade off. This is the type of song that if you’re listening to it in your car, you’re sure to find yourself going way over the speed limit. That doesn’t mean when you get a speeding ticket you can blame it on Axxis; it means that “Underworld” is pure adrenaline. Utopia is something Axxis and metal fans both can be proud of.

Label: AFM Records

Web: www.myspace.com/axxisworld

Band Lineup:
Bernhard Weiss (v)
Harry Oellers (k)
Marco Wriedt (g)
Rob Schomaker (b)
Alex Landenburg (d)

Track Listing:
1. Journey To Utopia
2. Utopia
3. Last Man On Earth
4. Fass Mich An
5. Sarah Wanna Die
6. Father’s Eyes
7. The Monsters Crawl
8. Eyes Of A Child
9. Heavy Rain
10. For You I Will Die
11. Underworld

Hardrock Haven rating 8/10