Frozen Crown Reigns Supreme with “Call of the North”

Italian power metal outfit Frozen Crown solidifies their position as a force to be reckoned with in the genre with their latest release, “Call of the North.” This 2023 album marks a significant step forward, showcasing a band firing on all cylinders and delivering their most cohesive and energetic effort to date.

The title track explodes from the gates, setting the tone for the album with its soaring melodies, intricate guitar work, and Giada “Jade” Etro’s powerful vocals. Reviewers at Angry Metal Guy praise the record’s “melodic personality” that “sounds monumental” despite relatively concise song structures [2]. Frozen Crown proves adept at crafting expansive soundscapes within tight frameworks, packing each track with memorable hooks and bombastic moments.

“Call of the North” avoids the sugary-sweet pitfalls that can sometimes plague power metal. The focus here is on pure, unadulterated power. Fast-paced drumming, shredding guitars, and Etro’s soaring vocals combine to create a thrilling listening experience ([3]). The band also demonstrates a knack for incorporating tempo changes and dynamic shifts, keeping the energy high without sacrificing nuance.

Several reviewers have lauded the album’s production, which is crisp and clear while maintaining a powerful punch [1, 4]. Each instrument gets its moment to shine, resulting in a well-balanced and impactful soundscape.

While guitarists Federico Mondelli and Fabiola “Sheena” Bellomo steal the show with their technical prowess and electrifying solos, the entire band deserves credit. Francesco Zof’s bass lays a solid foundation, and drummer Niso Tomasini provides a relentless yet dynamic backbone. Together, they create a tight unit that propels the music forward with relentless momentum.

“Call of the North” isn’t without its minor quibbles. RockmusicRaider argues that the album might lack ballads for those seeking moments of respite [3]. However, the consistent high energy throughout the record is undeniably exhilarating, and the lack of ballads is a minor point in the grand scheme of things.

Verdict: Frozen Crown delivers a masterpiece with “Call of the North.” This is a must-have album for any power metal fan, showcasing the genre at its finest. With exceptional songwriting, top-notch musicianship, and a thrilling production, “Call of the North” is a strong contender for one of the best power metal albums of recent years.