Power Theory : Out of Ashes, Into the Fire
by Cyndi Jo
Staff Writer
Representing elements from classic and melodic metal, all combined with clear influence of Iron Maiden, Judas Priest in a mix of some great thrash — Pennsylvania’s Power Theory have taken their self-released 11-track album Out of Ashes, Into the Fire and made it an international independent label’s hit.
Out of the Ashes, Into the Fire is quite the treat. For a debut full-length, the caliber of both the composition and musicianship is represented to it’s very best. Beginning the album with “Prevaricator” — guitarist, Bob “BB” Ballinger shreds through a riff reminiscent of early Accept, ripping through it with great force. Continuing on with “This Madness Is Mine” and “Nightmare Crawling” bring out the power, melody, heaviness to head-band to is what makes Power Theory a little bit special.
Despite the dark-sounding track names and lyrics, these tracks are surprisingly uplifting. Nothing in this album is overdone where it becomes annoying; no over use of chugging guitars, fast unnecessary solos, or the abuse of high-pitched notes. Although, the doom “Heart of Darkness” vocals brought on by Dave Santini are those growls that at some point feel out of place and loses the song’s melody. “When the Rain Comes Down” redeems Santini’s capability by delivering a beautiful chorus that bleeds through. Bands alike, at times, have the tendency to feature ridiculously repetitive drum fills. As Steve Habo recorded the albums drums (now taken over Chris Smith) his drumming on the 9/11 tribute “Never Surrender (Terror Time)” does the catchy early ’80s justice and won’t grate on ears while listening. The same goes with “Insane (Metal’s Part of My Brain),” which will clearly be a sing-along, crowd favorite track.
It’s clear that Power Theory wanted to craft most of the album with heavy traditional melodic/power metal in a loving manner. Some of the vocals might fluctuate the music scores, but they pull it off just fine. It will take a few spins before the first impressions of redundant metal-noise vanishes. Nonetheless, this so-called American metal/US Metal, Pennsylvania power house might be headed for international stardom — strongly recommend it for those ready to spirit away to the early likes of some good power melodic metal.
Genre: Metal
Band: Dave Santini (Vocals)
Bob “BB” Ballinger (guitar)
Jason Tete (bass)
Chris Smith (drums)
Track Listing
1. Prevaricator
2. This Madness Is Mine
3. Heart of Darkness
4. Nightmare Crawling
5. Never Surrender (Terror Time)
6. When The Rain Comes Down
7. Insane (Metal’s Part of My Brain)
8. Out of the Ashes, Into the Fire
9. Ureal’s Tears
10. Revelation
11. Slay The Beast Within (Remix)
Label: Pure Steel Records
Web: myspace.com/powertheorytheband
Hardrock Haven rating:8/10